In May 2025, the Social Security Administration (SSA) is rolling out a wave of payments that will affect millions of beneficiaries across the United States. The month includes not just the standard retirement and disability checks, but also a unique twist—two Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments for eligible recipients, thanks to a calendar scheduling quirk.

Here’s what you need to know about who’s getting paid, how much, and when.

May 2025 Payment Schedule Breakdown

The SSA follows a structured payment schedule each month, depending on the type of benefit you receive and certain personal factors like your birthdate or when you began receiving benefits.

1. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Payments:

• May 1: Regular SSI payment for May.
• May 30: Early SSI payment for June (since June 1 falls on a Sunday).

This rare occurrence results in two SSI payments being delivered in the same month. However, it is not a bonus. It simply reflects the early disbursement of the June payment. That means there will be no SSI payment in June.

2. Social Security Retirement, Disability (SSDI), and Survivor Benefits:

• May 2: For those who started receiving benefits before May 1997.
• May 14: For those with birthdays between the 1st–10th.
• May 21: For birthdays between the 11th–20th.
• May 28: For birthdays between the 21st–31st.

Some individuals may receive three payments in May—those who get both SSI and SSA benefits and began collecting before May 1997. Their payments could fall on May 1 (SSI), May 2 (SSA), and May 30 (early June SSI).

How Much Will You Receive?

SSI Payment Amounts (2025 Figures):

• Maximum individual payment: $943/month
• Maximum couple payment: $1,415/month
• Actual payments may vary depending on income and living arrangements.

Social Security Retirement & Disability Benefits:

• Average benefit in 2025: $1,976/month
• Maximum benefit at age 70: $5,108/month
  These figures include the 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) implemented in January 2025.

Important Reminders and Eligibility Notes

• Not a Bonus: The second SSI payment in May is simply an early payment for June. It does not represent extra or increased benefits.
• Watch for Delays: If you haven’t received your payment by the expected date, SSA advises waiting three business days before contacting them.
• Eligibility Criteria for SSI:
  • Monthly income must not exceed $2,019 for individuals.
  • You must have limited financial resources and meet SSA’s criteria.

How to Check or Manage Your Payments

SSA offers various online tools through my Social Security where recipients can:

• View payment dates
• Manage direct deposit
• Update contact information
• Access benefit verification letters

For those without online access, assistance is available via phone at 1-800-772-1213 or in person at your local SSA office.

Why Are These Payments Important Now?

With the rising cost of living, particularly in food, housing, and healthcare, timely Social Security and SSI payments remain essential lifelines for retirees, disabled individuals, and low-income households.

Recent legislative efforts continue to evaluate the long-term sustainability of the SSA programs, especially as more Americans reach retirement age in the coming years.

This article has been carefully fact-checked by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and eliminate any misleading information. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in our content.