For many Americans, the day their Social Security retirement benefits start arriving is a major life milestone. It marks the beginning of a new chapter—the start of retirement and the golden years. These monthly checks help cover living costs and offer peace of mind for millions who are no longer working.
Today, April 9, 2025, a specific group of retirees is scheduled to receive their next Social Security payment. But to receive it on time, you must meet a few important requirements.
How Do You Receive Today’s Social Security Payment?
Not all retirees will receive their check today. The Social Security Administration (SSA) divides payments across the month, depending on when you were born and when your benefits began.
To get your Social Security payment on April 9, you must meet two main requirements:
1. Your Social Security benefits must have started after May 1997
This includes retirement benefits, disability benefits, or any other type of SSA benefit. If you started receiving payments before May 1997, your check will follow a different payment schedule.
2. Your birthday must fall between the 1st and 10th of any month
The day of the month you were born determines your payment group. If you were born between the 1st and 10th, you’re part of Group 2, and your check is scheduled for today.
Direct Deposit Means Faster Payment
Even if you’re in the right group, your payment method will determine how quickly the money appears in your bank account. If you have Direct Deposit activated, your payment should arrive today, April 9.
If you don’t use Direct Deposit and rely on paper checks, you may experience a delay of a few days, depending on mail delivery in your area.
What Makes Social Security Payments More Predictable?
One big benefit of retirement checks is that you know in advance when the money is coming. Unlike a job where payday may vary, Social Security follows a strict schedule, helping retirees plan their monthly budgets more easily.
When Are the Next Social Security Payments in April?
April has four Social Security payment dates, and two are still coming up. If you don’t qualify for today’s payment, your check may be scheduled for one of the following dates:
Remaining Social Security Payment Dates in April 2025:
- April 16 – For retirees born between the 11th and 20th
- April 23 – For retirees born between the 21st and 31st
In both cases, you must also have started receiving benefits after May 1997 to be part of the April 16 or April 23 groups.