Millions of Americans receiving Social Security benefits are set to receive their next payment on May 7, 2025. This payment includes the newly adjusted Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) for 2025, designed to help beneficiaries keep up with rising living costs.
The 2.5% COLA increase means bigger monthly payments compared to 2024, offering a welcomed boost to retirees and individuals on disability.
Knowing the exact payment schedule and understanding how much to expect can help recipients plan their finances more effectively.
Who Will Receive the Social Security Payment on May 7?
The May 7, 2025 Social Security payment will be sent to:
- Retirees and SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) beneficiaries
- Individuals whose birthdays fall between the 1st and the 10th of any month
- People who started receiving benefits after May 1997
Beneficiaries who began receiving payments before May 1997 will have their checks deposited earlier, specifically on May 2, 2025.
Understanding the 2025 COLA Increase
In 2025, the Social Security COLA was raised by 2.5%. This adjustment ensures that benefits keep pace with inflation, allowing seniors and disabled individuals to maintain their purchasing power.
Here’s how the average monthly benefits have changed after the COLA:
| Beneficiary Type | Average 2024 Payment | Average 2025 Payment |
|---|---|---|
| Retired Worker | $1,927 | $1,976 |
| Disabled Worker | $1,542 | $1,580 |
| Widow(er) Alone | $1,788 | $1,832 |
| Widow(er) with Two Children | $3,669 | $3,761 |
The maximum monthly benefit for someone retiring at age 70 is now $5,108 in 2025, reflecting the new adjustment.
May 2025 Social Security Payment Schedule
Social Security follows a staggered payment schedule each month based on birth dates. Here’s the full payment breakdown for May 2025:
| Birth Date Range | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| 1st – 10th | Wednesday, May 7, 2025 |
| 11th – 20th | Wednesday, May 14, 2025 |
| 21st – 31st | Wednesday, May 21, 2025 |
| All recipients before May 1997 | Friday, May 2, 2025 |
If your birthday falls within the first ten days of any month, your payment will hit your bank account or Direct Express card on May 7.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Payments in May
Recipients of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) will see two payments in May:
- May 1, 2025: Regular SSI payment
- May 30, 2025: Advanced June SSI payment (because June 1 falls on a weekend)
Here are the maximum SSI benefit amounts for 2025:
| Category | Maximum Monthly Payment |
|---|---|
| Individual | $967 |
| Couple | $1,450 |
| Essential Person | $484 |
These SSI benefits also include the 2.5% COLA increase, providing a slightly higher monthly amount than previous years.
Important Changes Beneficiaries Should Know
Starting from April 2025, all beneficiaries must undergo in-person identity verification for:
- New applications
- Changes to personal information like address or direct deposit details
This new step aims to improve security and protect individuals from identity theft and benefit fraud.
Those unable to verify their identity online are encouraged to schedule an appointment at their local Social Security office.
Tips to Ensure You Receive Your Payment on Time
- Confirm your direct deposit information is accurate and up to date.
- Check your My Social Security account for payment status updates.
- Report any changes in address or banking details as early as possible.
- Allow at least three additional mailing days before contacting the SSA if payment is delayed.
Being proactive will help prevent any interruptions to your monthly income.
The Social Security May 7, 2025 payment marks an important boost for millions of retirees and disability beneficiaries, thanks to the 2.5% COLA increase. Understanding when your payment will arrive, how much you’ll receive, and ensuring all your information is current can make a significant difference in financial planning.
This May’s payment not only provides increased benefits but also reaffirms the importance of staying informed about Social Security schedules and updates.
Make sure you know your payment date, verify your eligibility for the COLA adjustment, and take action early if any issues arise with your deposit.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the May 7 Social Security payment?
Retirees and SSDI beneficiaries with birthdays between the 1st and 10th of the month who started receiving benefits after May 1997.
How much is the COLA increase for Social Security in 2025?
The 2025 COLA increase is 2.5%, raising monthly benefits for all Social Security and SSI recipients.
What happens if my payment doesn’t arrive on May 7?
Wait three business days. If the payment still hasn’t arrived, contact the Social Security Administration to report the issue.