The Social Security Administration (SSA) is set to issue the next round of payments on May 14, 2025, to millions of Americans. These payments will include the Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) increase that was applied earlier this year.
The 2.5% COLA boost was designed to help retirees and disability beneficiaries keep up with rising inflation and maintain their purchasing power.
Not everyone will receive a payment on this specific date—it’s reserved for a particular group of recipients. If you’re unsure whether you’re on the list, this article breaks down everything you need to know about eligibility, payment amounts, and how the COLA affects your benefit.
May 2025 Payment Schedule
Social Security benefits are typically disbursed based on birthdays and the year you began receiving benefits. Here’s how the payments are structured in May 2025:
| Payment Date | Who Will Receive It |
|---|---|
| May 2, 2025 | Recipients who began receiving benefits before May 1997 or those who also get SSI |
| May 14, 2025 | Retirees and beneficiaries born between the 1st and 10th of any month, post-1997 claims |
| May 21, 2025 | Birthdays from the 11th to 20th, benefits started after May 1997 |
| May 28, 2025 | Birthdays from the 21st to 31st, benefits started after May 1997 |
The May 14 payment is reserved for those born between the 1st and 10th of any month and who started receiving Social Security benefits after May 1997.
What Is the COLA Boost?
Each year, the Social Security Administration adjusts benefits based on changes in the Consumer Price Index (CPI). For 2025, the COLA was set at 2.5%, slightly lower than the previous year but still meaningful in helping recipients manage rising costs.
The COLA is automatically applied to:
- Social Security Retirement Benefits
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
The 2.5% increase began with January 2025 payments and is reflected in all subsequent monthly deposits, including the one arriving on May 14.
How Much Will You Receive in May 2025?
The actual amount a person receives depends on their earnings history, the age they began collecting benefits, and other factors. Here’s a breakdown of average and maximum benefit amounts in 2025:
| Type of Benefit | Average Monthly Payment | Maximum Monthly Payment |
|---|---|---|
| Retired Worker | $2,025 | $5,108 |
| Disabled Worker (SSDI) | $1,580 | $4,018 |
| SSI (Individual) | $943 | $967 |
These figures include the 2.5% COLA increase. For instance, a retiree who previously received $1,976 would now receive around $2,025 after the adjustment.
Eligibility for May 14 Social Security Payment
To receive the May 14 payment, recipients must meet both of the following:
- Born between the 1st and 10th of any month
- Started receiving Social Security benefits after May 1997
Those who qualify do not need to take any action. The payment will be sent automatically via direct deposit or mailed check, depending on the preference registered with SSA.
How Will You Receive the Payment?
Most beneficiaries receive payments through direct deposit, which is the fastest and safest method. Others who haven’t switched to electronic payments will receive checks by mail, which may take a few additional business days to arrive.
If you’re unsure about your payment status, it’s recommended to check your online account or banking app to confirm the deposit after the scheduled date.
Other May 2025 Payments to Note
- May 1, 2025: SSI payments were issued early due to May 1 falling on a weekday.
- May 2, 2025: Dual SSI and Social Security beneficiaries or pre-1997 recipients.
- May 21 and May 28: Later birthdate groups for post-1997 beneficiaries.
The May 14, 2025 Social Security payment marks an important date for millions of Americans who qualify for the 2.5% COLA boost. Whether you’re a retiree or receive disability benefits, this increase is meant to help you navigate today’s rising living costs.
Make sure your information is up to date with the SSA, especially your banking details, to avoid any delays. As Social Security continues to evolve, staying informed about payment dates, COLA increases, and eligibility is crucial for financial peace of mind.
FAQs
I qualify for the May 14 payment but didn’t receive it. What should I do?
Wait at least three business days before contacting SSA. If there’s still no payment, contact your bank first, then follow up with Social Security if needed.
Will the COLA affect my taxes or Medicare?
The COLA does not increase taxable income directly, but if your total income exceeds certain thresholds, it could impact Medicare premiums or tax liabilities.
How do I check my Social Security payment schedule and amount?
You can view your schedule and updated amount by logging into your my Social Security account. It provides full access to payment history and future deposits.