Millions of Americans receiving Social Security benefits can expect the second round of May payments to arrive in just five days, on Wednesday, May 22. These payments are part of the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) staggered monthly schedule, which determines distribution based on beneficiaries’ birth dates.
Who Will Receive Payments on May 22?
The SSA issues regular retirement, survivor, and disability benefits throughout each month. The timing of these payments is based on the beneficiary’s date of birth:
- If your birthday falls between the 1st and 10th of the month, you receive your payment on the second Wednesday of each month.
- If your birthday falls between the 11th and 20th, your payment arrives on the third Wednesday.
- If your birthday is from the 21st to the 31st, your payment is delivered on the fourth Wednesday of the month.
Since May 22 falls on the fourth Wednesday of the month, individuals with birthdays between the 21st and 31st will receive their Social Security checks on that day.
Previous and Upcoming May Payment Dates
This month’s payment schedule has been as follows:
- May 8 – First round: Birthdays between 1st-10th
- May 15 – Second round: Birthdays between 11th-20th
- May 22 – Third round: Birthdays between 21st-31st
In addition to these dates, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients were paid on May 1, as SSI payments are traditionally disbursed on the first of the month. If the first falls on a weekend or holiday, payments are sent the preceding business day.
How Much Are the Payments?
The amount recipients receive varies depending on multiple factors, including work history, lifetime earnings, and type of benefit. However, general 2025 averages for monthly benefits are:
- Retired workers: $1,910
- Disabled workers: $1,540
- Widows/widowers: $1,780
- SSI recipients: Individual maximum – $943; couples – $1,415
These averages reflect the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) of 3.2% implemented in January 2025. This adjustment was made to help beneficiaries cope with inflation and rising costs.
How Are Payments Delivered?
Most beneficiaries receive their payments through direct deposit, the preferred and fastest method. Others may receive funds through the Direct Express debit card program or by mailed paper check.
Those who opt for direct deposit typically receive their payments promptly on the scheduled date. However, mail delivery can sometimes take longer, and delays are not uncommon, especially around holidays or due to weather-related disruptions.
What to Do If Your Payment Is Late
If your expected payment doesn’t arrive on time, the SSA advises waiting three business days before contacting them. This waiting period allows time for banking delays or mail slowdowns.
After three days, beneficiaries can call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778), Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Local Social Security offices are also available to assist with issues, though appointments may be necessary.
Additional Benefits and Assistance
Beyond standard Social Security benefits, many recipients may also be eligible for additional programs, including:
- Medicare: Automatically available to those 65 and older or those under 65 receiving disability benefits for 24 months.
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): Food assistance for low-income individuals and families.
- Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): Helps cover heating and cooling costs.
- State supplemental payments: Some states add money to federal SSI benefits.
Beneficiaries are encouraged to check with local or state agencies to determine eligibility for these programs.
Upcoming Payment Schedule for 2025
For planning purposes, here are the remaining payment dates for the rest of the year for those receiving benefits based on birth dates:
- June 12, 19, 26
- July 10, 17, 24
- August 14, 21, 28
- September 11, 18, 25
- October 9, 16, 23
- November 13, 20, 27
- December 11, 18, 24
Note: Dates may shift slightly due to weekends or federal holidays.
Final Thoughts
As the cost of living continues to challenge many households, timely Social Security payments are a lifeline for nearly 70 million Americans. The upcoming round on May 22 ensures that those with later-month birthdays will receive their critical benefits as scheduled.
Beneficiaries should ensure their contact and banking information is up to date with the SSA to prevent any interruptions. To manage your benefits, access forms, or sign up for direct deposit, you can use the SSA’s online portal or call their support center for assistance.