In the United States, Social Security usually follows a very predictable monthly payment schedule. But in May 2025, there are some changes that might cause a little confusion among beneficiaries.
One of these changes even affects the payment date for group 1 retirees. It’s important to note that these changes do not affect the amount of money you receive—only the timing of the payments.
The main reason for this delay is the way the month of May starts. May begins on a Thursday, which pushes the second Wednesday—usually an important payday for many retirees—further into the month. For some families who rely heavily on their monthly Social Security checks, this slight delay could cause concern.
However, there’s no need to worry. Social Security will still send all payments on time according to the adjusted schedule. Knowing exactly when you’ll get paid will help you plan better and avoid unnecessary stress.
Who Will Have to Wait Longer for Their Social Security Payment?
The group most affected by the delay in May 2025 is group 2. This group includes retirees who:
- Started receiving Social Security benefits after May 1997.
- Were born between the 1st and 10th of any month.
Normally, group 2 receives their payment on the second Wednesday of the month. However, in May 2025, the second Wednesday falls on May 14, which is already in the third week of the month. This means a longer wait compared to other months.
This is not a mistake or an issue with your Social Security benefits. It’s simply a result of how the monthly calendar falls this year.
Every month follows the same pattern, but when the second Wednesday arrives late, like it does this May, the gap between the first and second groups’ payment dates feels bigger than usual.
What About the Remaining Social Security Payments in May?
Apart from the delayed payment for group 2, there are two other important dates to know about for May 2025:
- Wednesday, May 21: This is the payment date for group 3. It includes retirees who started receiving benefits after May 1997 and whose birthdays are between the 11th and 20th of the month.
- Wednesday, May 28: This payment is for group 4, which covers retirees who also started receiving benefits after May 1997 and whose birthdays are between the 21st and 31st of the month.
As always, payments are sent directly to the bank accounts or Direct Express cards of the beneficiaries. There are no changes to the payment amounts or the way the money is delivered—only the exact dates are different this month.
What About Group 1 Retirees?
Group 1 retirees—those who started receiving their Social Security benefits before May 1997—already received their payment on May 2, 2025. Their payments are always tied to the first working day of each month, no matter which week it falls in.
Because of this, Group 1 retirees didn’t face any unusual delay this month. They continue to receive their benefits as scheduled.