Millions of Americans depend on Social Security payments every month to manage their daily expenses like rent, food, and medicine. Whether it’s due to retirement or disability, this steady income brings much-needed stability.
Every check — and every increase in payment — can make a real difference in people’s lives. As we move into May 2025, it’s important to know about the next scheduled Social Security payment and what it means for you.
First Social Security Payment for May 2025
After finishing all April payments, the Social Security Administration (SSA) is now getting ready for the first May payment. This payment will be sent on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, and it will include the latest cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), which raised benefits by 2.5% starting from January 2025.
The COLA is designed to help people keep up with rising costs like food, rent, and healthcare, so even a small percentage increase can offer some important relief.
Who Will Get the May 7 Payment?
Not everyone will receive their payment on May 7. This date is for beneficiaries in Group 2 under the Social Security payment schedule. To be part of this group, you must:
- Have started receiving Social Security benefits after May 1997
- Have a birthday that falls between the 1st and 10th of any month
This group includes people who are retired as well as those who receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).
If you qualify, your payment will either be directly deposited into your bank account or sent to you by mail, depending on what you chose when you applied for benefits.
Details About the COLA 2025 Increase
The 2.5% COLA increase is not a one-time bonus. It’s a permanent raise that helps protect your monthly income from inflation.
If you’ve been getting benefits since January, you should have already seen slightly higher amounts in your past few payments. For 2025, the maximum benefits are:
- $5,108 per month for retirees
- $4,018 per month for people receiving disability benefits (SSDI)
Of course, not everyone gets the maximum amount. Your benefit is based on your personal work history and income over the years.
Tips to Boost Your Future Social Security Benefits
If you haven’t claimed your benefits yet, there are smart ways to maximize what you receive:
Delay Your Retirement
If you wait past your full retirement age to claim benefits (up to age 70), you can increase your monthly check.
Work for At Least 35 Years
Your Social Security amount is based on your highest-earning 35 years. If you work fewer years, it can lower your benefit.
Increase Your Earnings
The more you earn during your working years, the higher your future Social Security payments can be.
Important: If you are receiving SSDI, you cannot delay your benefits the same way retirees can, but you should always keep your records updated. Reporting any changes in your health condition or work history to the SSA ensures your payments are accurate.