In the United States, Social Security payments are not all sent out on the same day. The Social Security Administration (SSA) follows a set calendar that spreads out payments based on when a person started receiving benefits or when their birthday falls. While this system helps keep things organized, it also means that not everyone gets their money at the same time each month.
One group of retirees is especially affected by this: those who have been collecting Social Security for the longest time. In May, they were paid early in the month—but won’t see another check until June. Let’s take a closer look at why this happens and when their next payment is due.
Why the Payment Delay Happens
The SSA’s payment system isn’t random—it’s based on a clear schedule. Payments are divided into different groups. Some people are paid early in the month, others in the middle or at the end. This helps avoid overwhelming the banking system and allows for smooth processing.
However, this staggered schedule can cause longer gaps between payments. For example, retirees in Group 1 received their May payment early—on Thursday, May 2—because May 3 was a weekend. That means their next payment won’t come until Monday, June 3, creating a full month-long wait.
Who Is in Group 1?
Group 1 includes retirees who:
- Started receiving Social Security before May 1997
- Are primary beneficiaries with active benefits
- This group always receives payments on the 3rd of each month, unless that date falls on a weekend or holiday. If that happens, the payment is moved to the last business day before the 3rd.
So in May, the 3rd was a weekend. That’s why Group 1 got their money on May 2. In June, the 3rd is a Monday, so payments go out on that day.
What Does This Mean for You?
If you are in Group 1, you won’t receive any additional payments in May. Your next Social Security deposit will arrive on Monday, June 3. This longer wait is part of the regular schedule—it’s not a mistake or delay.
To stay on top of your finances, it’s important to know exactly when your payments are scheduled. You can check your deposit dates by logging into your My Social Security account at ssa.gov, calling the SSA, or visiting a local office.
How to Plan Around These Gaps
Since this group receives payment once a month and may experience longer gaps in months like May, it’s a good idea to:
- Create a monthly budget
- Plan your spending around the payment schedule
- Set reminders for future deposit dates
- Knowing your group and expected dates can help reduce financial stress and avoid confusion.
For retirees in Group 1—those who started collecting Social Security before May 1997—your next check will be deposited on June 3, 2025. While the gap between May and June feels long, it’s part of the SSA’s regular payment calendar.
This group always receives payments at the beginning of each month, and dates may shift slightly based on weekends or holidays. Staying informed about your payment group and schedule can help you better manage your money each month and avoid surprises.