Social Security is a lifeline for millions of retirees in the United States, especially for those who started receiving their benefits before May 1997. These early retirees usually get their check once a month, right at the beginning.
But this May, there’s exciting news: some retirees might receive two payments within just two days! Let’s break down who qualifies for this extra boost and when you can expect it.
Who Can Get Two Social Security Payments in May 2025?
If you are a retiree who began collecting Social Security before May 1997, you are part of what the Social Security Administration (SSA) calls “Group 1.” Normally, Group 1 beneficiaries receive their payment on the 3rd of each month.
However, this May, there’s a special situation. Since May 3 falls on a weekend, the retirement benefit will be paid earlier, on May 2. Plus, if you are also eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you could receive another payment on May 1.
In short, if you meet the following conditions, you could get two payments:
- You qualify for SSI based on age, disability, and low income.
- You are a Group 1 Social Security retiree (started benefits before May 1997).
Understanding the Two Payments: SSI and Retirement Benefits
The first payment arriving on May 1 is the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payment. SSI is given to people who have very limited income and very few resources. To qualify, you must:
- Be 65 years old or older, or have a recognized disability.
- Have low income and limited financial resources (less than $2,000 for individuals and $3,000 for couples).
The second payment will be your regular Social Security retirement benefit, which will be sent on May 2 instead of May 3 because of the weekend.
Remember, not all retirees will get both payments — only those who qualify for both Social Security retirement benefits and SSI.
Other Social Security Payments in May 2025
Besides May 1 and 2, there are other important payment dates for retirees in May:
- May 14: Payment for those who started receiving benefits after May 1997 and were born between the 1st and 10th of any month.
- May 21: Payment for retirees born between the 11th and 20th of any month.
- May 28: Payment for those born between the 21st and 31st of any month.
These payments are made to those who started Social Security after May 1997 under the staggered payment schedule.
All payments are usually sent through Direct Deposit or loaded onto a Direct Express card. Both methods are safe and fast, helping you get your money without any delays.