Find out who gets paid first, why these dates matter, and how to ensure you receive your check on time.
Some Social Security participants receive both a retirement check and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Because SSI is paid on the 1st of the month, while retirement benefits follow a different schedule, it is entirely possible to get two separate deposits in May—especially if you meet SSI requirements and have had Social Security benefits approved.
Why does the schedule matter so much? It ensures timely budgeting? Properly tracking these dates can help retirees and other beneficiaries avoid surprises. May’s schedule is slightly unusual for those who began receiving benefits before May 1997 (or those who receive both Social Security and SSI) because the 3rd falls on a Saturday. In this scenario, payments for that group arrive one day earlier.
How to understand the May 2025 schedule for Social Security recipients without missing deadlines
If you are only eligible for retirement benefits, you will receive your payment on one of three Wednesdays, depending on your date of birth. However, if you started receiving Social Security before May 1997 or you are eligible for both Social Security and SSI, you will get your benefit on May 2. This arrangement ensures participants are not left waiting over the weekend.
Below is a brief table showing the main payment dates for May 2025. Remember that weekends or holidays can adjust the exact day:
| Date | Who Receives Payment |
|---|---|
| May 1 | SSI recipients |
| May 2 | Social Security recipients before May 1997 (or both SSI & SS) |
| May 14 | Retirees with birthdays from the 1st to the 10th |
| May 21 | Retirees with birthdays from the 11th to the 20th |
| May 28 | Retirees with birthdays from the 21st to the 31st |
| May 30 | Supplemental Security Income (SSI) |
Most beneficiaries automatically receive their deposits on these scheduled dates. Still, it’s wise to ensure your information with the Social Security Administration (SSA) is up to date. Have you moved recently or changed your bank? If so, you might want to contact SSA to avoid any interruptions.
What to do if your payment is delayed and how to stay prepared for May’s checks?
Occasionally, delays occur due to postal or banking issues. In such cases, beneficiaries are advised to wait three additional mailing days before contacting the SSA. This waiting period helps confirm whether a simple delay is the culprit. If your check is still missing after those days, reach out to your local office by phone or in person for assistance.
Keep track of which Wednesday (or early date) applies to you, update personal details as needed, and confirm direct deposit arrangements to ensure everything goes smoothly. By doing so, you can stay stress-free and focus on making the most of your hard-earned benefits.