A calendar quirk pushes back payments for millions of retirees — and those born early in the month are the most affected.
It’s not a mistake, nor a policy change. But some Social Security beneficiaries in the United States will need to wait longer than usual to receive their May 2025 checks. Although payments will still be issued in full, a simple shift in the calendar is behind the irregularity. For millions of Americans who depend on timely deposits, this small adjustment could feel more significant than it really is.
Social Security payments typically follow a predictable rhythm: Group 1 is paid on the first business day of the month, while the rest of the retirees—those who began receiving benefits after May 1997—are divided into three groups depending on their birth dates. But in May 2025, the second Wednesday doesn’t arrive until the 14th, pushing back the first round of mid-month payments deeper into the third week.
Who will receive their payment later than usual?
Those most affected are members of Group 2, which includes retirees who:
- Began receiving Social Security after May 1997, and
- Were born between the 1st and the 10th of any month.
Under normal circumstances, they receive their benefits on the second Wednesday of the month. But in May 2025, that day lands on May 14, noticeably later than in other months. For those relying on these funds to cover rent, bills, or medications, the wait could be stressful—even if temporary.
Group 1, in contrast, received their payment as scheduled on May 2, since their calendar is always tied to the first business day of each month. No delays for them.
Remaining May payments: Who gets paid when?
Despite these calendar quirks, the Social Security Administration maintains its commitment to consistent, timely payments. In total, three more rounds of deposits are scheduled for May:
- Wednesday, May 14 – Payment for Group 2 (born 1st–10th)
- Wednesday, May 21 – Payment for Group 3 (born 11th–20th)
- Wednesday, May 28 – Payment for Group 4 (born 21st–31st)
As always, the funds will be sent directly to bank accounts or deposited via Direct Express cards. The amounts remain unchanged, ranging from approximately $1,934 to $2,900, depending on the beneficiary’s situation and benefits structure.
A regular irregularity
Though it may come as a surprise to some, these delays aren’t new. They happen any time the second Wednesday falls unusually late in the month. This can give the impression that there’s a delay or issue with the system, when in reality it’s simply a byproduct of how the calendar aligns.
The key takeaway? All benefits will be paid. No one is losing money, and no changes have been made to eligibility or payment methods. But understanding the exact schedule can help retirees and their families plan more effectively—and avoid unnecessary concern.