The Social Security Administration (SSA) has officially confirmed two major payments for eligible recipients this May: a $717 average Supplemental Security Income (SSI) deposit and a $1,999 average Social Security retirement benefit. Millions of low-income individuals, seniors, and people with disabilities can expect these payments in the final days of the month.
These deposits are part of the SSA’s regular monthly disbursements, but their timing and eligibility details are critical for beneficiaries to understand. Here’s a full breakdown of who qualifies, when payments are arriving, and how much recipients can expect.
Key May 2025 Payment Dates at a Glance
| Date | Payment | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| May 1 | SSI Payment for May | All SSI recipients |
| May 14 | Social Security Retirement Benefit | Birthdays between 1st–10th; benefits started after May 1997 |
| May 21 | Social Security Retirement Benefit | Birthdays between 11th–20th; benefits started after May 1997 |
| May 28 | Social Security Retirement Benefit | Birthdays between 21st–31st; benefits started after May 1997 |
| May 30 | June SSI Payment (Early Deposit) | All SSI recipients (due to June 1 falling on a Sunday) |
$717 SSI Payment Coming Early on May 30
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal benefit program that provides monthly payments to seniors aged 65 and older, blind individuals, and those with disabilities who have little or no income or resources.
For June 2025, SSI beneficiaries will receive their payment early on Friday, May 30, instead of June 1, because the first of the month falls on a weekend. It’s important to note that this is not an additional payment—just an advance deposit for June.
SSI Payment Breakdown:
- Average Monthly Payment: $717
- Maximum Benefit: $943 for individuals, $1,415 for couples (as of 2024 rates)
- Eligibility: U.S. citizens or qualifying residents meeting financial and disability criteria
$1,999 Average Social Security Retirement Payment on May 28
Social Security retirement payments are made to eligible seniors who’ve worked and contributed through payroll taxes over their careers. Depending on when you were born and when you started receiving benefits, your May 2025 payment date may vary.
The final Social Security payment for May is set for Wednesday, May 28, targeting recipients:
- Who started benefits after April 30, 1997, and
- Have birthdays between the 21st and 31st of any month
Social Security Payment Details:
- Average Monthly Benefit: $1,999
- Maximum Monthly Benefit: Up to $5,108 for those who delayed retirement until age 70 and had high lifetime earnings
- Eligibility: Minimum 40 work credits (10 years of qualifying work), age 62+, or survivors/disabled individuals
Why Two Payments in May?
While some beneficiaries may notice two SSI payments in May (May 1 and May 30), it’s not a bonus or double payout. The second payment is simply June’s benefit arriving early due to calendar adjustments. There will be no SSI payment issued in June, so recipients should plan accordingly.
This scheduling pattern happens several times a year when the 1st of a month lands on a weekend or federal holiday.
What to Do If You Haven’t Received Your Payment
The SSA advises all beneficiaries to allow three business days after the expected payment date before contacting them. If the payment hasn’t arrived by then, individuals should:
- Call SSA at 1-800-772-1213
- Or visit their local Social Security office
You can also track your payments and manage direct deposit information through your My Social Security account.
How to Apply for SSI or Social Security Benefits
If you believe you’re eligible for SSI or Social Security benefits and haven’t applied yet, here’s what you need:
For SSI:
- Proof of age and identity
- Income/resource documentation
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or eligible immigration status
For Social Security Retirement:
- Social Security number
- W-2s or self-employment tax forms
- Bank account details for direct deposit
Apply online here
Final Thought
May 2025 brings welcome relief for millions of Americans relying on government support. Whether you’re receiving the $717 SSI benefit or the $1,999 retirement check, these payments play a crucial role in ensuring financial stability for low-income and elderly Americans.
Make sure your direct deposit information is up-to-date and check the SSA’s official website regularly for updates.
