In April 2025, many Social Security recipients will notice higher payments than usual. Some people may even receive up to $2,400 this month. These increases are the result of recent policy changes, cost-of-living adjustments (COLA), and in some cases, retroactive payments.
Whether you’re retired, disabled, or receive survivor benefits, it’s important to understand how much you may receive, when to expect your payment, and why these changes are happening. This guide will help you stay informed and make sure you’re not missing out on any money you’re owed.
Why Some Social Security Payments Are Higher in April 2025
Key Reasons for the Boost:
| Reason | Details |
|---|---|
| COLA Increase | A 2.5% COLA boost started in January 2025 |
| WEP & GPO Repealed | Social Security Fairness Act repealed these cuts for public employees |
| Retroactive Payments | Average of $6,710 paid to affected workers (backdated to January 2024) |
| Special Recalculations | Some recipients received revised benefits due to past underpayments or new evaluations |
What Is the $2,400 Payment All About?
The $2,400 amount that’s been in the news does not apply to everyone. It refers to:
- A proposed annual increase in some bills presented in Congress (not yet passed)
- Retroactive and recalculated benefits for specific groups
Who May Actually See This Amount in April?
- Public workers (teachers, police, firefighters) affected by WEP or GPO, now receiving full benefits
- People who got back pay from past underpayments
- Recipients who just had their benefits recalculated
What Is WEP and GPO—and Why Was Their Repeal Important?
These were two rules that reduced Social Security benefits for public employees who also received a government pension:
- WEP (Windfall Elimination Provision): Reduced benefits for those who didn’t pay Social Security taxes in some jobs.
- GPO (Government Pension Offset): Reduced spousal or survivor benefits for people who had their own government pensions.
What Changed in 2025?
In January 2025, the Social Security Fairness Act repealed both of these rules. As a result:
- Over 3.2 million Americans received higher payments
- Many got retroactive deposits, averaging $6,710
- Example: A retired teacher now gets $2,000/month, up from $1,600
April 2025 Social Security Payment Schedule
Your Social Security payment date depends on your birthday and when you started receiving benefits.
SSI (Supplemental Security Income):
- Payment Date: Tuesday, April 1, 2025
- For low-income seniors and individuals with disabilities
Regular Social Security (Retirement, SSDI, Survivor Benefits):
| If You Started Benefits Before May 1997 | Payment Date: Thursday, April 3 |
|---|---|
| If You Started After May 1997 | Based on your birth date: |
| Born 1st–10th | Wednesday, April 9 |
| Born 11th–20th | Wednesday, April 16 |
| Born 21st–31st | Wednesday, April 23 |
To check your exact schedule, sign up at ssa.gov/myaccount.
COLA Adjustment in 2025
Every year, Social Security includes a Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) to help keep up with inflation. In 2025, the COLA is 2.5%, which means:
- If you were receiving $2,000/month in 2024, it is now $2,050/month
- While this may sound small, it adds up to $600 more per year
How to Check If You’re Getting More in April
If you’re unsure whether your payment has increased, here’s what to do:
- Log in to your SSA account at ssa.gov/myaccount
- Check your payment history and current benefit breakdown
- Look for any recent adjustments or retroactive deposits
What If You Think You Were Underpaid?
Sometimes errors happen. If you believe you should have received more money:
- Call SSA: 1-800-772-1213
- Visit your local SSA office
- Have your records, statements, and payment history ready