The Social Security Administration (SSA) is wrapping up its April 2025 retirement payments this week. If you’re one of the eligible retirees in the U.S., and your birthday falls after the 21st of any month, your payment is on the way. While most retirees get a standard benefit, some people can receive up to $5,108 per month—but only if they meet some strict conditions.
Let’s break down who gets paid when, who qualifies for the maximum benefit, and how you can plan ahead to increase your future Social Security payments.
April 2025 Social Security Payment Dates
Social Security payments for retirees are sent out on a set schedule every month. The exact date depends on your birth date. Here’s how the payments were handled in April:
- People born between 1st and 10th of any month got paid on Wednesday, April 9.
- People born between 11th and 20th were paid on Wednesday, April 16.
- People born after the 21st will get their payment this Wednesday, April 23.
So, if your birthday is on or after the 21st, expect your deposit this week.
How to Qualify for the Maximum $5,108 in Social Security
Getting the maximum monthly Social Security check of $5,108 in 2025 is not easy. It’s based on three main factors: your work history, your earnings, and the age at which you retire. Here’s how it works in simple terms:
Work for At Least 10 Years (40 Work Credits)
You need a minimum of 40 credits to qualify for Social Security. That usually means working for at least 10 years. In 2025, one credit is given for every $1,810 you earn, and you can earn up to 4 credits per year.
Earn the Maximum Taxable Salary Every Year
Your monthly payment is calculated using your 35 highest-earning years, adjusted for inflation. To get the maximum benefit, you must have earned at or above the Social Security taxable maximum every year. In 2025, this is $176,100. Any income above this limit doesn’t count toward your benefit calculation.
Wait Until Age 70 to Claim Benefits
Even though the full retirement age is between 66 and 67 (depending on your birth year), you’ll get more money if you delay claiming until age 70. For each year you wait after full retirement age, your benefit increases by about 8%—up to a total of 132% of your original benefit.
Only those born in 1955, who turn 70 in 2025, and have always earned at the taxable cap, can receive the maximum of $5,108 monthly.
Others born a year earlier or later will get a little less. For example, someone born in 1954 and turning 71 in 2025 could receive around $5,090.
Is It Common to Get the Maximum Social Security Benefit?
Not really. Most people don’t meet all these strict conditions. However, it’s useful to understand them if you’re still working and planning for retirement. If your goal is to get the highest benefit possible, track your income history through your “my Social Security” account and aim to hit the earning cap each year if you can.
Understanding how Social Security benefits work can help you plan smarter for your retirement. Even if you can’t reach the $5,108 maximum, working more years, earning more consistently, and delaying your claim until age 70 can still boost your monthly payment. Knowing the schedule also helps you manage your money better each month.
If you haven’t already, create a “my Social Security” account to keep an eye on your work record and benefits forecast—it’s one of the best ways to stay informed and in control of your future finances.