Millions of people in the United States get a Social Security check every month as part of their retirement, disability, or other benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) schedules these payments on several dates each month to avoid system crashes and ensure that deposits arrive in an orderly and timely manner.
According to the official Social Security calendar, payments are not issued randomly. Each group of beneficiaries is assigned a specific collection day, determined by the beneficiary’s date of birth and when they began receiving their benefits. This structure remains largely unchanged each year and is key to ensuring that the millions of people who depend on this help know when to expect their income.
In May 2025, there will be four payment dates, with the third scheduled for Wednesday, May 21. Not everyone belongs to this third group, so it is important to check the requirements and find out if your check will arrive on that date or if you will have to wait for one of the other payment rounds that month.
Who gets the third Social Security payment in May?
The third round of Social Security payments in May is intended exclusively for people who meet two very specific conditions. First, they must have started receiving their benefits after May 1997. Third, they must have been born between the 11 and 20 of any month of the year. If both criteria are met, then the check will be issued on Wednesday, May 14.
This group of beneficiaries is part of what the SSA calls “Group 3” within its monthly payment structure. Most people in this group get their funds through direct deposit, which allows the money to be available on the same day the payment is issued. However, those who use other collection methods may receive their income one or more days late, depending on the banking system or the instrument used.
If a person does not meet the two requirements above, they are not eligible for the May 21 payment. In that case, they may have received their check earlier, on the 3rd, or they will have to wait until May 28, depending on their group.
What is the maximum payment I can receive from Social Security?
The amount you receive from Social Security depends on several factors, such as your work history, the number of years you have contributed, and your age when you apply for benefits. The SSA sets maximum amounts each year as a reference, although most beneficiaries receive less than that.
In 2025, the maximum monthly payment for those retiring at full age is $4,018. This figure also applies to people receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). If someone decides to delay retirement until age 70, they can receive an even higher amount: $5,108 per month. On the other hand, those who opted for early retirement at age 62 receive a lower amount, as they are subject to a penalty for early collection.
These amounts already include the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), which for 2025 has been 2.5%. Although not everyone reaches these figures, knowing the maximums helps give an idea of the financial ceiling that can be aspired to with a full career and a good retirement strategy.
Ways to get Social Security
The SSA offers several methods for receiving payments, all designed to be secure and efficient. The most recommended is Direct Deposit, which allows the money to be automatically deposited into the beneficiary’s bank account on the day of payment. It is the fastest method and the one that generates the fewest errors.
Another option is the Direct Express card, a prepaid debit card that is linked directly to Social Security funds. This card is useful for those who do not have a bank account, and it also allows access to money on the day of payment. Finally, there is the option of setting up a bank transfer, although if it is not set up as Direct Deposit, it may take up to three business days to complete.
The SSA no longer issues paper checks, so all beneficiaries must choose one of these electronic methods. It is important to check that your bank information is up to date, as an error can delay the deposit.
Can I get Social Security on this day if it is for disability?
Yes, people receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) are also included in the same payment schedule as retirees. If someone receives this benefit and meets the requirements of Group 3, i.e., began collecting after May 1997 and was born between the 11 and 20 of any month, then they will receive their check on May 21.
The only difference between the different types of beneficiaries is the reason they are receiving payment. But in terms of issuance dates, everyone follows the same monthly schedule. So both retirees and SSDI recipients should look at the day assigned based on their date of birth and the length of time they have been receiving benefits.
If you have any questions, the best way to confirm your collection date is through your personal account on my Social Security. There, you can check your payment history, verify that your deposit has been issued, and make sure all your information is correct.