Social Security payments are usually sent out based on your birthday and the type of benefits you receive. But sometimes, the calendar causes unexpected changes in the schedule, especially when weekends or holidays fall near regular payment dates.
In May 2025, that’s exactly what’s happening. Because of how the dates line up this month, some beneficiaries will receive three checks, while others will follow the normal one-check routine.
This is all because of a quirk in the calendar, not a bonus or increase in your monthly benefits
Who May Receive 3 Social Security Payments in May?
If you receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and regular Social Security retirement or disability benefits, there’s a chance you’ll see three deposits in May.
Here’s why:
- SSI payments are normally issued on the 1st of each month.
- When the 1st falls on a weekend or holiday, the payment is sent on the last business day of the previous month.
- That’s what happened in April—SSI beneficiaries got their May SSI payment on April 30, 2025 (Tuesday).
- But since June 1, 2025 is a Sunday, the June SSI payment will be made on Friday, May 31, 2025.
So for someone on both SSI and Social Security, here’s what the month of May could look like:
- May 8, 15, or 22—Depending on your birthday, you may receive your regular Social Security payment.
- May 31 — You receive your June SSI payment early.
- April 30 — You would’ve already received your May SSI check a day early.
That’s three deposits happening in close proximity to each other—two of them technically in May.
What About Social Security-Only Beneficiaries?
If you only receive Social Security retirement, disability (SSDI), or survivor benefits—not SSI—you’ll receive only one payment in May, based on your birthday.
Here’s the usual breakdown:
- If your birthday falls on the 1st–10th, you’ll be paid on May 8.
- If your birthday is between 11th–20th, your payment date is May 15.
- If your birthday is 21st–31st, you’ll get paid on May 22.
So unless you’re getting both SSI and Social Security, you won’t see more than one check this month.
How to Check Your Payment Schedule
The Social Security Administration publishes a detailed payment schedule each year. You can find the full 2025 calendar on the SSA’s official site here:
🔗 https://www.ssa.gov/pubs/calendar.htm
Make sure to check your own benefit type and match your birthday to confirm your exact payment date.
Also, if you use direct deposit, your funds will usually arrive on the same day SSA issues the payment. If you receive checks by mail, allow 3–5 business days for delivery.
Is This a Bonus or Extra Money?
It’s important to understand that these triple payments are not extra money.
The early payments are simply shifting because of weekends or holidays. For example, the June SSI payment coming on May 31 is still counted as June’s payment—it’s just being sent a little early.
So even if you get three deposits in May, you won’t receive any payment in early June. It all evens out.
What If Your Payment Is Late or Missing?
If your expected deposit hasn’t arrived within 3 business days of your due date, you should contact the Social Security Administration:
- Call SSA at 1-800-772-1213 (Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 7 PM).
- Or visit your local SSA office. You can find locations at:
Always check with your bank first to rule out any delays on their end.
Quick Recap: May 2025 Payment Timeline
| Payment Type | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| May SSI | April 30 |
| SS (1st–10th birthdate) | May 8 |
| SS (11th–20th birthdate) | May 15 |
| SS (21st–31st birthdate) | May 22 |
| June SSI | May 31 |
Final Thoughts
This unusual Social Security schedule in May 2025 may lead to some confusion, but once you understand how it works, it’s easy to follow.
Triple checks are possible if you’re receiving both SSI and regular Social Security, but they’re not a bonus. It’s just how the payment dates fall on the calendar.
Keep an eye on your bank account, check the SSA calendar, and don’t worry—everything balances out over the next month.