For millions of people in the U.S., Social Security is more than just a check—it’s the money they depend on to live. It helps pay for rent, medicine, groceries, and other daily needs.
That’s why even a small increase in benefits makes a big difference. And this month, many retirees and people with disabilities will see that increase in their next payment.
On May 14, 2025, a new round of Social Security payments will go out. This payment includes the 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) added at the start of the year to help with rising prices. But not everyone will receive this payment—it’s only for a certain group.
Who Will Get Paid on May 14?
The May 14, 2025 Social Security payment is for two main groups:
- People who were born between the 1st and 10th of any month
- People who started getting Social Security after May 1997
If you fit into one of these categories, you don’t need to do anything. Your payment will come either by direct deposit or mail, depending on how you’ve chosen to receive it.
What Is the 2.5% COLA Increase?
COLA stands for Cost-of-Living Adjustment. Every year, Social Security payments are reviewed and adjusted to help people keep up with inflation. In 2025, the increase is 2.5%. That means your monthly check will be slightly higher than last year.
This isn’t extra money or a bonus—it’s an important yearly update to make sure your benefits don’t lose value as prices go up.
How Much Can You Get?
The amount of money you receive depends on your past earnings and when you chose to start your benefits. Here are the maximum benefit amounts in 2025:
- $5,108 per month for someone who retired at full retirement age
- $4,018 per month for someone receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
Not everyone gets the maximum. Your personal benefit may be less, depending on your work history.
Do You Need to Do Anything?
No. If you are eligible for the May 14 payment, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will send it automatically. If you’ve signed up for direct deposit, the money will go straight into your bank account. If you chose paper checks, it may take a few extra days to arrive by mail.
Just make sure your banking or mailing information is up to date with the SSA to avoid any delays.
Why Staying Informed Matters
Understanding when you’ll get paid and how much to expect is important, especially when you’re relying on that money for your daily needs. Even a small change like the 2.5% COLA can help you cover rising costs.
If you haven’t started collecting Social Security yet, remember: waiting until after your full retirement age or working a full 35 years can increase your future payments.
Being informed means you’ll always get the most out of your benefits.