As the month of May rolls in, millions of Americans are eagerly watching their mailboxes and bank accounts. Why? Because the Social Security Administration (SSA) has confirmed a fresh round of payments set to hit on Wednesday, May 14, 2025. With the 2.5% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) increase factored in, beneficiaries could see deposits of up to $2,000 in their accounts.
Table of Contents
Whether you’re retired, disabled, or receiving survivor benefits, knowing when your payment arrives and how much you’re entitled to is essential—especially with inflation continuing to strain household budgets. This comprehensive guide explains who gets paid this week, how the SSA payment calendar works, and what to do if your money doesn’t arrive on time.
Who Will Receive Social Security Payments on May 14?
According to the official 2025 SSA payment schedule, the May 14 deposit is reserved for:
- Beneficiaries born between the 1st and 10th of any month
- Who started receiving benefits after May 1997
This includes those receiving:
- Retirement benefits
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
- Survivor benefits
If your birthday falls within those first 10 days of any month and you began receiving benefits after 1997, you’re on track for payment this Wednesday, May 14.
Confirmed 2026 COLA Increase Could Push Monthly Benefits Over $2,000 for First Time in History
Understanding the May 2025 Social Security Payment Calendar
To avoid delays and ensure orderly distribution, SSA divides monthly payments based on birthdays:
- May 14 – Birth dates 1st–10th
- May 21 – Birth dates 11th–20th
- May 28 – Birth dates 21st–31st
Important Exception:
If you began receiving Social Security before May 1997, you receive your check on a fixed schedule—specifically, the third business day of the month. For May 2025, that was Thursday, May 2, since the 3rd fell on a Saturday.
How Much Will You Receive?
The average Social Security payment this month is approximately $2,000, thanks to the 2.5% COLA increase that took effect in 2025.
Here are the national averages by category:
- Retirement benefits: $1,999.97
- Disability (SSDI): $1,581.88
- Survivor benefits: $1,565.52
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI): $717.87
Remember: your actual payment is based on your lifetime earnings, the age you retired, and the number of years you contributed to Social Security.
What About SSI Payments?
If you’re enrolled in Supplemental Security Income (SSI)—a program for low-income seniors or individuals with disabilities—your payment was sent on May 1.
If the 1st falls on a weekend or holiday, SSI payments are typically issued on the last business day of the prior month.
When Should the Money Arrive?
If you’re signed up for direct deposit, your benefit is typically available in your bank account in the early hours of your scheduled payment day. For May 14 beneficiaries, that means checking your account by Wednesday morning.
You can also log into your My Social Security account online to track payments, verify amounts, or access statements.
What If Your Payment Is Late?
While uncommon, payment delays can happen due to:
- Banking network issues
- Weekends or federal holidays
- Clerical errors
SSA recommends waiting at least 3 business days before taking action. If your May 14 payment hasn’t arrived by Monday, May 19, follow these steps:
- Contact your bank to check for delays or misrouted funds.
- Log in to your SSA account to confirm the payment date and status.
- Call SSA directly at 1-800-772-1213 or visit your local SSA office.
- Be sure to have your Social Security number and payment details ready when contacting support.
How to Avoid Future Payment Surprises
- Set up direct deposit if you haven’t already – it’s faster and safer than mail.
- Keep your contact info updated in your SSA account to receive alerts.
- Use the MySSA portal regularly to monitor changes, updates, or new benefit notices.
- Report any changes in income or living arrangements promptly to avoid future overpayments or delays.
Final Thoughts
The May 14, 2025, Social Security payment is more than just another check—it’s a lifeline for millions who count on predictable income to cover rising living costs. With the 2.5% COLA increase, beneficiaries can expect a modest boost this month, averaging around $2,000 per person.
Make sure to review the SSA’s payment calendar, track your deposit, and act promptly if anything seems off. Staying informed is the best way to safeguard your benefits—and your peace of mind.