Third Social Security Payment of May: The third Social Security payment of May is on its way, and millions of Americans are wondering: Will I be getting my check next week? Whether you’re a retiree, a person with disabilities, or a caregiver managing someone else’s benefits, it’s important to know if you’re on the list. This article breaks it all down in simple, clear language. You’ll learn who’s getting paid, why some people get two or even three checks in May, and how to track or manage your Social Security benefits like a pro. Whether you’re new to the system or helping others navigate it, you’ll find practical advice, government-sourced data, and answers to your most common questions.
Third Social Security Payment of May
The third Social Security payment of May 2025 is headed your way if your birthday is between the 21st and 31st. While some recipients will see multiple payments this month, it’s all part of the SSA’s scheduling — not a bonus. Keep an eye on your direct deposit, update your mySSA account, and make sure you’re budgeting smart. The more you understand the system, the better you can plan your life — or help someone else plan theirs.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Next Payment Date | Wednesday, May 28, 2025 |
| Who Gets Paid | Birthdays between 21st–31st; benefits started after May 1997 |
| Multiple Payments in May | SSI on May 1, SSA on May 3, early SSI for June on May 30 |
| Reason for Early Payment | June 1 falls on a Sunday |
| Official Schedule PDF | SSA.gov – 2025 Payment Calendar |
| Average Monthly Benefit | $1,907 for retired workers; up to $5,108 maximum |
| COLA for 2025 | 3.2% Cost-of-Living Adjustment |
Who Gets Paid on May 28, 2025?
This third round of monthly Social Security payments goes out to people whose birthdays fall between the 21st and 31st of any month, as long as they started receiving benefits after May 1997. The Social Security Administration (SSA) breaks up monthly payments into three groups based on birthdays:
- 1st–10th: Paid on the second Wednesday
- 11th–20th: Paid on the third Wednesday
- 21st–31st: Paid on the fourth Wednesday (May 28 this month)
If you’re in that last group, your payment is coming in 6 days.
Why Are Some People Getting Multiple Payments in May?
No, Social Security isn’t giving out bonus checks. But some recipients will see two or even three payments in May — here’s why.
1. Early June SSI Payment
If you receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI), your June payment will arrive early — on May 30 — because June 1 is a Sunday. The SSA doesn’t issue payments on weekends or holidays, so they bump it up.
2. Triple-Payment Scenario
Some folks get both SSI and Social Security. If you fall into this category and began collecting before May 1997, here’s your May payday lineup:
- May 1 – Regular monthly SSI
- May 3 – Regular Social Security
- May 30 – Early SSI for June
This isn’t extra money — it’s just early delivery due to the calendar setup.
A Quick Look at Social Security Payment History
Social Security payments used to arrive on the third of each month for everyone. But as the number of recipients grew, the SSA changed its process in 1997 to spread out the payments across the month. This helped reduce administrative pressure and gave banks and agencies a more manageable workload.
Now, the SSA uses a birthday-based schedule for everyone who began receiving benefits after May 1997.
How Much Will You Receive?
As of 2025, average and maximum benefit amounts look like this:
- Retired worker average: $1,907/month
- Disabled worker average: $1,537/month
- Married couple (both receiving SSA): $3,033/month
- Maximum benefit at full retirement age: $3,822
- Maximum benefit if you delay to age 70: $5,108
These amounts are adjusted annually through a Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA). For 2025, the COLA is 3.2%, helping benefits keep pace with inflation.
How Does Social Security Get Funded?
Social Security is primarily funded through payroll taxes collected under the Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA). Here’s how it works:
- Employees and employers each pay 6.2% of wages.
- Self-employed individuals pay 12.4% directly.
- These funds go into the Social Security Trust Fund, which pays out benefits.
As of now, the SSA estimates it can fully pay benefits through 2034. After that, unless changes are made, only about 80% of benefits will be covered by ongoing tax income.
Tips for Managing Your Third Social Security Payment of May Like a Pro
Whether you’re living check-to-check or helping manage someone else’s benefits, these tips can help:
Set Up Direct Deposit
Use the Direct Express® card or link your bank account via your SSA online portal.
Watch Your Mailbox
If you receive a paper check, sign up for USPS Informed Delivery to track it. Also, check your SSA messages regularly for updates.
Report Changes Fast
Got a new job? Moved? Changed banks? Report it fast at SSA.gov or call 1-800-772-1213 to avoid benefit disruption.
Budget Around Your Schedule
Know your payment dates and plan your bills accordingly — especially if you’re receiving multiple checks in a single month.
What To Do If Your Check Doesn’t Arrive?
If your check is missing:
- Wait at least 3 mailing days past the due date.
- Log in to your SSA account to check payment status.
- Contact your bank or Direct Express card services.
- Call SSA at 1-800-772-1213 if there’s no update.
Sometimes checks are delayed due to:
- Bank changes
- Address mismatches
- System flags for income verification or identity
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Why did I get two SSI checks in May?
Because June 1 is a Sunday, your June SSI was paid early — on May 30.
Q: Can I get both SSI and Social Security?
Yes, many people qualify for both. These are called concurrent benefits and require meeting income and disability guidelines.
Q: What if my birthday is on the 20th?
You’d receive your payment on the third Wednesday of the month, not the 28th.
Q: Is the Social Security system running out of money?
Not exactly. It can still pay partial benefits after 2034 unless Congress reforms the system.
