In the United States, Social Security payments continue as usual in May 2025, bringing timely support to millions of retirees and beneficiaries. A key date to note this month is Tuesday, May 14, especially for a large group of recipients.
If your birthday falls between the 1st and 10th of any month and you began receiving benefits after May 1997, then your payment is scheduled for that day.
Who Is Scheduled to Get Social Security on May 14?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) organises its monthly payments in a staggered manner to avoid delays and system overload. Payments are grouped based on two main factors: your birth date and the year you started receiving benefits.
The payment on May 14, 2025, is for Group 2 beneficiaries. You belong to this group if you meet both of the following conditions:
- You started receiving benefits after May 1997.
- Your birthday falls between the 1st and 10th of any month.
If you meet both criteria, your payment will be directly deposited into your account (if enrolled in direct deposit) or sent by mail, and should arrive by May 14. If only one condition is met, your check will come during a different week of the month.
COLA Already Included in the May Payment
There’s often confusion around Social Security increases. Some beneficiaries think there’s a new raise happening in May, but that’s not the case. The 2.6% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) was applied back in January 2025, and every payment since then has already included it.
This increase helps retirees and other beneficiaries keep up with rising prices. It’s meant to preserve the buying power of Social Security income. You don’t need to fill out any forms or take action—this increase is automatic.
The May 14 payment is not a new boost, but a regular monthly deposit with the 2.6% COLA already added. This same COLA has been included in the payments from January, February, March, and April as well.
Why COLA Is Important
The COLA is reviewed and applied once a year, usually announced in October for the following year. It’s based on inflation rates and rising costs of basic goods like food, rent, and healthcare. For 2025, the 2.6% increase means your check is slightly higher than what you got in 2024.
This COLA amount remains fixed for all monthly payments throughout the year. No further increases will be applied in 2025. The next adjustment is expected in January 2026.
What Is the Maximum Social Security Payment in 2025?
Not everyone receives the same amount of Social Security each month. The final payment depends on several personal factors:
- How long you worked (at least 35 years are considered).
- Your average earnings over those years.
- The age you decided to begin collecting benefits.
Here’s the maximum monthly Social Security payout in 2025:
- $5,108/month – For those who delayed retirement until age 70.
- $4,873/month – For those who retired at full retirement age (67).
- Less than both – For early retirees who started collecting at age 62.
These amounts already include the 2025 COLA. Most people don’t receive the maximum, but knowing the limits helps understand where your benefit amount stands.