During the third week of May 2025, many retirees and disabled beneficiaries can expect crucial Social Security payments. If you’re among them, keep an eye out for your deposit on May 14th, especially if you utilize direct deposit.
Who will be paid on May 14th?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) adheres to a specific monthly payment schedule, with benefits distributed based on two key factors:
- Your start date for Social Security benefits
- Your birth date
For those eligible on Wednesday, May 14th, the payments will go to individuals meeting both of the following criteria:
- Those who began receiving benefits since May 1997
- Individuals who were born between the 1st and 10th of any month
This group is part of Two Waves in the monthly payment scheme, which primarily includes retirees and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) recipients.
When will the money arrive?
- If you’re using Direct deposit, your payment should appear on May 14th.
- For those receiving a check or using slower deposit methods, it might take up to 3 business days (between May 15th and 17th) to show in your account.
How much will I get?
In 2025, Social Security benefits include Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA), which raised payouts by 2.5% starting January. So, this increase should already be reflected in your May payments.
The specific amount you receive is determined by your earnings and work history. Here are the maximum monthly payments for 2025:
- $4,018: Full retirement age (FRA) or SSDI
- $5,108: If you retired at age 70 with delayed benefits
- Reduced sum: Early retirement at age 62
Most recipients will find that their amounts fall below the maximum, but the May 14 check will indeed reflect the adjusted monthly benefits, including that COLA boost.
What if you don’t receive your payment?
If you’re eligible but haven’t seen your deposit yet, consider these steps:
- Check your bank account or the My Social Security Portal
- Be patient and allow up to 3 business days for processing if it’s not a direct deposit
- If payment still hasn’t arrived, it’s best to contact the SSA at 1-800-772-1213.
What’s next?
Additional Social Security payments will follow later this month for those with birthdays in a different range. If you miss out on the May 14 payment, you could see a deposit on either May 21st or May 28th, based on your birthday and when you started receiving benefits.
