If you’re one of the millions of Americans who rely on Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you might notice something a bit different this May. You could receive two payments in one month! Before you think you’re getting a bonus, let’s make one thing clear—it’s not an extra payment, and it’s not a mistake. It’s all part of how the Social Security Administration (SSA) schedules its payments.

Let’s break down exactly why this is happening, who it affects, and what you should expect in the coming months.

What Is Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?

Supplemental Security Income is a federal program that helps people who are elderly (65 and older), blind, or disabled and have limited income and resources. Nearly 7.4 million people across the U.S. depend on SSI to cover basic living expenses like housing, food, clothing, and medical care. The program is designed to provide a safety net for people who may not have worked long enough to qualify for regular Social Security benefits.

Why Two Payments in May?

Here’s where the scheduling twist comes in. Normally, the SSA sends out SSI payments on the first of each month. However, if the first falls on a weekend or a federal holiday, the payment gets moved to the last business day of the previous month.

This year, June 1, 2025, falls on a Sunday. Because the SSA doesn’t issue payments on weekends or holidays, it will send out the June SSI payment early, on Friday, May 30. The regular May payment will still be sent out on Thursday, May 1.

So, even though it might look like you’re receiving two checks in May, what’s actually happening is that your June payment is arriving a little early. That means you won’t receive a payment in June because it will have already been sent out.

Will This Happen Again?

Yes, absolutely! This is a common occurrence. Because weekends and holidays fall on the calendar, payment shifts like this usually happen several times a year.

According to the SSA’s 2025 payment calendar, SSI recipients can expect similar schedule changes later this year. In fact, August, October, and December 2025 will also have two SSI payments for the same reason.

It’s helpful to keep track of these dates so you can plan your budget accordingly and avoid confusion.

Social Security May 2025 Payment Schedule

Let’s make it even clearer with a simple breakdown of when different groups will receive their payments this May.

SSI-Only Recipients:

• May Payment: Thursday, May 1, 2025
• June Payment (Early): Friday, May 30, 2025

People Receiving Both SSI and Social Security (or Those Who Started Receiving Social Security Before May 1997):

• SSI Payment: Thursday, May 1, 2025
• Social Security Payment: Friday, May 2, 2025 (shifted because May 3 falls on a weekend)

All Other Social Security Recipients:

Social Security payments are issued based on your birthday:

• Birthdays 1st–10th: Wednesday, May 14, 2025
• Birthdays 11th–20th: Wednesday, May 21, 2025
• Birthdays 21st–31st: Wednesday, May 28, 2025

This system helps stagger payments so everyone doesn’t get paid on the same day.

How to Confirm Your Payment

Not sure when your payment is coming? You can always check by logging into your My Social Security account at ssa.gov. This online portal lets you track payment dates, view your benefit details, and make changes to your account.

If you haven’t already set up an account, it’s free and easy to do—and it’s the fastest way to stay informed about your benefits.

Beware of Scams

Whenever the Social Security payment schedule changes, scammers often try to take advantage of people’s confusion. It’s important to know that the SSA will never call, text, or email you asking for your personal information, like your Social Security number or bank account details.

If you receive any suspicious messages or calls, don’t respond. Instead, report them directly to the SSA or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

How to Budget Around This Schedule Change

Even though it might seem exciting to get two checks in one month, remember: this isn’t extra money. You’re simply receiving your next month’s payment early. This means you’ll need to budget carefully to make sure your money lasts through June, since there will be no SSI payment arriving that month.

One good tip is to set aside your second payment and only start using it in June as you normally would. This way, your finances stay on track, and you won’t accidentally overspend thinking you got a bonus.

Why Does SSA Move Payments?

The SSA follows strict payment schedules to ensure that benefits are delivered on time. When a payment date lands on a non-business day (like a weekend or holiday), payments are shifted earlier to avoid delays. While this can feel a bit confusing, it’s actually meant to make sure you never miss a payment.

What About Other Benefits?

This schedule change only affects SSI payments. If you’re receiving other types of benefits, like Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or retirement benefits, your payment dates might follow different rules. Always check your own benefit type to understand when you’ll be paid.

Final Takeaway

If you’re seeing two SSI payments in May 2025, don’t worry—it’s completely normal. The SSA is simply paying your June benefits a little early because June 1 falls on a Sunday. There will be no payment in June, but everything will go back to the regular schedule starting July.

Knowing your payment dates can help you plan your budget, avoid surprises, and stay in control of your finances. Remember to regularly check your My Social Security account to stay updated, and be aware of scammers who try to take advantage of these payment changes.

For millions of Americans, SSI is a critical lifeline. While these early payments can be a bit confusing at first, understanding why they happen ensures you’re never caught off guard.