Millions of Americans rely on Social Security payments as a lifeline. Whether due to retirement or disability, this monthly income provides stability, ensuring that individuals and families can cover essential costs like housing, medication, and groceries. For those in the system, every scheduled check—and every increase—matters.
After the final payment of April, the Social Security Administration (SSA) is preparing to distribute its first payment for May. On Wednesday, May 14, the SSA will send checks that include the 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) that took effect in January 2025. This adjustment is meant to help beneficiaries keep pace with inflation and protect their purchasing power amid rising living costs.
Who Will Receive the May 14 Payment?
The May 7 deposit will go to beneficiaries in Group 2, following Social Security’s structured payment calendar. This includes:
- People who started receiving benefits after May 1997
- Beneficiaries whose birthday falls between the 1st and 10th of any month
These conditions apply both to retirees and to those receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). If you meet these criteria, your payment will be deposited directly into your bank account or mailed to you, depending on your chosen method of receipt.
This payment reflects the continued application of the COLA 2025 increase, which raised benefits by 2.5%. For those receiving retirement benefits, the maximum monthly check is now $5,108. Meanwhile, individuals on disability benefits may receive up to $4,018, depending on their earnings record and personal circumstances.
What to Know About the COLA Increase
The COLA is not a one-time bonus; it’s a permanent adjustment applied to monthly benefits to compensate for the rising cost of living. While the increase may seem modest, it offers meaningful support over time, particularly for those on fixed incomes.
If you’re already receiving benefits, this adjustment has been in effect since January, and you should have seen higher amounts in your payments since then.
For those planning to claim Social Security in the future, certain strategies can help increase your benefit amount:
- Delay retirement: Waiting beyond your full retirement age increases your monthly benefits—up to age 70.
- Work at least 35 years: Benefits are based on your 35 highest-earning years. Having fewer than that can reduce your average.
- Maximize your income during working years: Higher lifetime earnings typically result in higher benefits.
Disability beneficiaries do not have the same flexibility in timing their application, but it is vital to ensure all work years are accurately recorded. Any errors or changes in condition should be reported to the SSA, as they could impact your eligibility or benefit amount.
Staying informed and understanding how Social Security works can help beneficiaries make the most of every adjustment—and ensure no payment goes unnoticed.
