On April 9, 2025, Social Security beneficiaries born between the 1st and 10th of any month will receive their monthly payment. This is part of the official payment schedule based on birth dates set by the Social Security Administration (SSA). The payment on April 9 is the second one of the month, as SSA divides payments into four groups based on birth dates.
But how much can you expect to receive, and who qualifies for the largest payments? In this article, we’ll explain how the payment system works, who gets the highest amounts, and what factors influence your monthly check.
How Social Security Payments Are Distributed
Social Security payments are distributed according to four groups based on your birthday. The groups are as follows:
- 1st to 10th of the month: Payments are made on the second Wednesday (April 9, 2025, for this group).
- 11th to 20th of the month: Payments are made on the third Wednesday of the month.
- 21st to 31st of the month: Payments are made on the fourth Wednesday of the month.
These groups include four main types of beneficiaries:
- Retirees: Workers who have contributed to the system through taxes during their working years.
- Survivors: Family members (spouses or children) of workers who have passed away.
- Disabled Workers: Individuals with disabilities who qualify based on their work history.
- Dependents: Family members of retirees or disabled workers who rely on them financially.
How Much Can You Receive from Social Security?
The amount you receive from Social Security depends on several factors, including your retirement age and work history. In 2025, Social Security benefits will vary based on when you choose to retire.
Maximum and Average Payments in 2025
The maximum Social Security payment increases with age and delaying retirement. Here are the estimated amounts for 2025:
- At age 62:
- Maximum payment: $2,883
- Average payment: $1,600 per month
- At age 67 (Full Retirement Age):
- Maximum payment: $4,119
- Average payment: $2,300 per month
- At age 70:
- Maximum payment: $5,108
- Average payment: $2,850 per month
These higher payments for those who wait until age 70 are due to the 8% annual increase in benefits for each year of delay after full retirement age (age 67).
Why Does Social Security Payment Vary?
The amount you receive depends on when you start collecting your Social Security benefits. Here’s why:
- Early Retirement (age 62): If you retire at age 62, you will face a permanent reduction in your monthly payment.
- Full Retirement (age 67): If you retire at age 67, you will receive your full payment.
- Delayed Retirement (age 70): If you wait until age 70, you’ll receive the maximum payment.
The longer you wait to claim your Social Security, the higher your monthly check will be. The average Social Security recipient will receive about $1,976 per month, but this amount can vary depending on the age at retirement.
How to Get More Information About Social Security
If you have more questions about your Social Security benefits or want to check your eligibility, you can get help in the following ways:
- Visit the SSA website: It offers plenty of detailed information about your benefits.
- Call the SSA: Dial 1-800-772-1213 from 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. local time, Monday through Friday.
- Visit an SSA office: You can meet with someone in person to get personalized assistance. All these consulting options are free.