For millions of retired people in the United States, the monthly Social Security check is not just helpful—it’s a lifeline. After years of working and paying into the system, this income becomes the main source of money during retirement. Many use it to cover basic needs like rent, food, and medicines.
That’s why the payment dates are so important. When a check is coming, many seniors want to know: “Will I get paid this time?” and “How can I get a higher amount?”
As we approach April 23, it’s important to know who gets paid on this date and how future payments can be increased.
Who Will Receive the Social Security Payment on April 23?
The April 23 payment is for a specific group of Social Security recipients known as Group 4. To be part of this group, you must meet two conditions:
- You started receiving Social Security after May 1997
- Your birthday falls between the 21st and 31st of any month
If you meet both these requirements, you will receive your monthly benefit on Wednesday, April 23, 2025. This group always gets paid during the fourth week of the month.
Here’s how the Social Security payment schedule works:
- Birthdays between the 1st and 10th: Payment on the second Wednesday
- Birthdays between the 11th and 20th: Payment on the third Wednesday
- Birthdays between the 21st and 31st: Payment on the fourth Wednesday (April 23 in this case)
People who started collecting benefits before May 1997 are paid in the first days of the month, not on these Wednesdays.
The date you get your money doesn’t change the amount of your payment. That depends on other important factors, like your work history and retirement age.
How to Get a Bigger Social Security Check
Even though the Social Security system has fixed rules, there are ways to increase the amount you receive. Here are three main tips to maximize your monthly benefit:
Delay Your Retirement
While you can start receiving Social Security at age 62, waiting longer increases your check. If you wait until age 70, your monthly payment can be much higher. The longer you delay, the more you can earn each month.
Work for at Least 35 Years
Social Security looks at your 35 highest-earning years to calculate your benefit. If you’ve worked fewer years or had many low-paying jobs, your payment may be lower. That’s why working longer—even part-time—can help you get more.
Earn More During Your Career
The higher your income, the more you pay into Social Security. And that means a bigger benefit when you retire. Getting promotions, raises, or switching to better-paying jobs can have a big effect on your future retirement income.
In short, planning ahead is the key. By working longer, earning more, and choosing the right time to retire, you can make sure your monthly checks are as high as possible.