If your birthday falls between May 21 and May 31, you could receive a Social Security payment of up to $5,108 as early as May 21, 2025. This amount is possible for retired people in the United States who chose to delay their retirement in order to receive higher monthly benefits. While not everyone will get the full amount, many can still receive more than the standard payment.
Let’s understand who can receive this payment, why the date matters, and how you can get the most from your Social Security benefits.
What Is This $5,108 Payment About?
Social Security is a monthly support system provided by the U.S. government for retirees, disabled individuals, and their families. The amount you receive depends on your work history, your salary, and when you decide to start taking your benefits.
In 2025, the maximum Social Security payment is $5,108 per month. But this amount is only for those who wait until age 70 to begin collecting their retirement money. Most people will get less, but the ones who waited and had a strong career can receive the full amount.
Why Is May 21 an Important Date?
The U.S. Social Security Administration follows a monthly schedule for payments. People who were born between May 21 and May 31 and started receiving benefits after May 1997 are placed in Group 4.
This group receives their monthly payment on the third Wednesday of the month, which is May 21 in 2025. So, if you fall into this group, you should expect your money to arrive by this date.
Some retirees may also get their payment as a lump sum directly into their bank account, depending on their setup with Social Security.
Who Can Get the $5,108?
To qualify for the maximum monthly payment of $5,108, you need to meet all these conditions:
- You delayed your retirement until age 70.
- You worked for at least 35 years.
- You had a high income during your working years.
- You began receiving Social Security after May 1997.
- Your birthday is between May 21 and May 31.
Even if you don’t meet all these conditions, your payment can still be higher than the average amount, especially if you delayed your retirement.
How to Check Your Social Security Payment
To find out exactly how much you will receive, you can:
- Visit the official SSA website and log in to your My Social Security account.
- Call or visit your local Social Security office.
- Make sure your bank account and personal details are updated and correct.
It’s a good idea to check everything ahead of the payment date to avoid delays.
Tips to Maximize Your Social Security Benefits
Delay Your Retirement For every year you delay claiming Social Security past your full retirement age (usually 66–67), your monthly payment increases by **8%**. This can help you reach the maximum amount by age 70.
Work for 35 Years Your Social Security benefit is calculated based on your **top 35 earning years**. If you worked less than that, the missing years are counted as $0, reducing your average.
Earn a Good Salary Your total earnings during your career affect your Social Security payment. The higher your salary, the more you contribute—and the more you receive after retirement.
By planning your career and retirement wisely, you can move closer to the maximum monthly benefit.