Social Security Checks With COLA: If you’re relying on Social Security benefits to cover your monthly bills, then May 28, 2025, is a date you’ll want to circle on your calendar. That’s when the Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA)-boosted checks will go out for millions of Americans—specifically, for those whose birthdays fall between the 21st and 31st of any month. This year’s COLA is a 2.5% increase, announced by the Social Security Administration (SSA) in response to rising inflation. It might not sound like a huge bump, but when you’re living on a fixed income, every dollar counts. And for some recipients, the increase means bigger-than-ever payments—up to $5,108 a month.
Social Security Checks With COLA
Social Security checks are getting a modest but meaningful boost this May, especially for those receiving their benefits on May 28. Whether you’re maxing out your retirement payout or relying on SSI to get by, understanding how COLA works and planning accordingly can help you stay financially secure. With a few smart moves and a clear strategy, Social Security can be more than just a safety net—it can be a stable foundation for your golden years.
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Date | May 28, 2025 |
| Eligibility | Birthdays from the 21st–31st of any month |
| Maximum Monthly Benefit (2025) | $5,108 if benefits are delayed until age 70 |
| Average Monthly Benefit (2025) | $1,976 for retired workers |
| SSI Maximum Payment (2025) | $967 for individuals, $1,450 for couples |
| 2025 COLA Rate | 2.5%, effective January 2025 |
| Official SSA Calendar | SSA Calendar Link |
How the Social Security Payment Schedule Works
The SSA distributes payments across different Wednesdays depending on your birthday:
- Birthdays 1st–10th: Paid on the second Wednesday.
- Birthdays 11th–20th: Paid on the third Wednesday.
- Birthdays 21st–31st: Paid on the fourth Wednesday — which is May 28 this year.
If you started receiving benefits before May 1997, your payment comes on the 3rd of each month regardless of your birth date.
Who Gets the Biggest Social Security Checks With COLA?
To get the maximum benefit of $5,108/month, you must have:
- Worked and paid Social Security taxes for 35 years
- Consistently earned at or above the Social Security taxable maximum
- Delayed retirement until age 70
This amount reflects a reward for long careers and delayed retirement. Meanwhile, the average retired worker will get around $1,976/month in 2025.
Real-Life Example: Meet Robert
Robert, a retired postal worker in Michigan, delayed claiming his benefits until age 70. After 40 years of service and consistently maxing out his taxable earnings, he now receives $4,985 a month. Thanks to the COLA increase, his check grew by over $120 compared to 2024, helping him manage rising rent and prescription costs.
How COLA Affects Everyday Living?
While 2.5% might not sound like much, let’s break it down:
- $1,976 average benefit × 2.5% = $49.40 extra per month
- That could cover:
- A tank of gas
- A co-pay for medication
- Part of a utility bill
But for those living in high-cost areas like California or New York, that increase might still fall short of keeping up with inflation.
Additional Considerations for SSI Recipients
For Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients, the maximum federal benefit in 2025 is:
- $967/month for individuals
- $1,450/month for couples
Note: Some states offer supplemental payments or other benefits, so check your local Department of Human Services for details.
Impact on Disabled and Survivor Benefits
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and survivor benefits also receive the COLA bump. This is vital for families relying on survivor checks or individuals who can’t work due to a disability. The increase helps maintain purchasing power in a rising-cost economy.
Comparing COLA: 2025 vs. Previous Years
Here’s a quick look at recent COLA changes:
- 2024: 3.2%
- 2023: 8.7% (record high due to pandemic-era inflation)
- 2025: 2.5%
This drop signals cooling inflation, but it also means less of a boost to benefits than retirees might have hoped.
Financial Planning Tips for Maximizing Benefits
1. Delay Retirement (If Possible)
The longer you wait (up to age 70), the higher your monthly check.
2. Track Your Earnings Record
Use the SSA’s My Social Security portal to ensure your income history is accurate.
3. Combine With Other Income Sources
Consider pairing Social Security with retirement accounts like 401(k)s or IRAs to maintain a comfortable lifestyle.
4. Beware of Tax Impacts
Up to 85% of your Social Security income can be taxable depending on your total income.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What if my payment doesn’t arrive on May 28?
A: Wait at least 3 business days, then contact SSA at 1-800-772-1213.
Q: Is Social Security income taxable?
A: It can be, depending on your income.
Q: How is COLA calculated?
A: Based on the CPI-W, which tracks changes in the cost of goods and services.
Q: Will benefits keep increasing in the future?
A: Likely, but future COLAs depend on inflation. Estimates suggest modest increases unless inflation spikes again.
