In the United States, Social Security payments typically follow a set schedule, and most beneficiaries can rely on receiving their checks on the same dates each month. However, there are exceptions, especially in months like May, when retirees might notice slight changes in the payment schedule.
This is particularly true for those who are 70 or older, as they tend to receive the highest checks due to delaying their retirement. Understanding when these payments will be sent out can help avoid confusion and ensure retirees are prepared for any changes in their usual payment dates.
When Will Social Security Payments Be Sent Out in May?
The first major Social Security payment in May will be sent on Wednesday, May 14, but not all beneficiaries will receive their payment on this date. Only those who meet the following criteria will get their check on May 14:
- Their benefit was approved after May 1997.
- They were born between the 1st and 10th of the month.
This group represents the first of three groups that receive Social Security payments based on their birthday. The week in which May 14 falls may make some retirees think their payment is delayed, but in reality, this is just the normal schedule.
For those not in this first group, here are the upcoming payment dates:
- May 21: Retirees born between the 11th and 20th of the month.
- May 28: Retirees born between the 21st and 31st of the month.
- May 30: Special early payment for June’s SSI (Supplemental Security Income) beneficiaries only.
These dates help organize the distribution of payments and make it easier for retirees to plan their monthly budget. Understanding when your check will arrive ensures that you can manage your finances without unexpected disruptions.
Why Some Retirees Get Social Security Payments Later This Month
Retirees who are 70 or older often receive the highest Social Security checks because their payments increase the longer they delay retirement past their full retirement age (66 or 67).
In 2025, retirees who meet the criteria for the highest payment could receive up to $5,180 per month, depending on their work history and earnings.
To qualify for this maximum benefit, three conditions must be met:
- Delay retirement until age 70.
- Work for at least 35 years.
- Earn high and consistent income during that period.
However, even if retirees are eligible for the highest payment, this does not mean they will receive their check sooner. The date of their payment is determined by their date of birth and when they first began receiving benefits, not the amount of the check.
Therefore, retirees aged 70 and older who were expecting their payment in the first week of May will need to wait until May 14, or even May 21, depending on their birthdate. While this wait may only be a few days, it can cause confusion if retirees are not aware of how the system works.