On July 3, 2025, a special group of Social Security beneficiaries will receive their monthly payments, marking an important date in the calendar. While most retirees and survivors already got their benefits last month, a specific group will get their payments on this Thursday.
These recipients have unique circumstances based on historical criteria or specific conditions, and their payments are set for July 3.
Why Do Some Social Security Payments Arrive on July 3?
The reason behind the July 3 payment date is rooted in the evolution of the Social Security system. Before May 1997, all Social Security payments, including those for retirees and survivors, were made on the 3rd of each month.
However, when the system saw a surge in participants, the government adjusted the payment process. A new system was introduced that staggered payments based on beneficiaries’ birthdates for those filing claims after May 1997.
This change didn’t affect those who were already part of the program, which is why a group of people, who were already receiving benefits before May 1997, still get paid on the 3rd of each month.
In addition to this historical group, two other categories of people also receive their payments on the 3rd:
People who get both retirement benefits and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
Those who permanently live abroad.
The payment date is shifted if it falls on a weekend or holiday. Since July 3rd is a Thursday and the July 4th holiday is close, the payment will be made on the 3rd, which is a business day.
Other Social Security Payment Dates for July 2025
For most retirees and survivor beneficiaries who filed claims after May 1997, Social Security payments are made on different dates based on their birthdates. Here are the dates for July 2025:
Born between the 1st and 10th of the month: Payments will arrive on Wednesday, July 9.
Born between the 11th and 20th: Payments will arrive on Wednesday, July 16.
Born between the 21st and 31st: Payments will arrive on Wednesday, July 23.
This staggered system helps the Social Security Administration (SSA) manage the large volume of payments more efficiently.
Maximum and Average Social Security Payments
The payments made on July 3 will reflect the 2.5% Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for 2025. Social Security payments vary widely based on factors like age, work history, and income.
For retirees, the maximum possible monthly benefit for someone who waits until age 70 to claim Social Security is $5,108 in 2025. This amount is the result of high-income work and delaying retirement to maximize benefits.
On the other hand, the average monthly benefit for all retirees is about $1,917. This average includes those who retired at different ages and with different earnings histories.
For survivor beneficiaries, the payment amounts depend on their relationship to the deceased and their base benefit. A widow or widower can receive up to 100% of their spouse’s benefit, especially if the spouse’s benefit is greater than their own, though this is also subject to a family maximum.