As May 2025 progresses, some Social Security beneficiaries may not see their monthly payments until June. While this may raise concerns for those relying on these funds, it’s not the result of an error or disruption. Instead, it’s a normal part of the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) structured payment schedule.
Why Some Payments Are Delayed Until June
The SSA does not issue all benefits on the same day. Instead, it follows a staggered payment schedule designed to distribute funds efficiently across millions of recipients.
There are two main factors that determine when a Social Security beneficiary receives their monthly payment:
- When They First Started Receiving Benefits
- Their Date of Birth
Here’s how the SSA payment schedule breaks down:
- If you started receiving Social Security benefits before May 1997: You will receive your payment on the 3rd of each month. If the 3rd falls on a weekend or holiday, the payment is sent on the prior business day.
- If you began receiving benefits in May 1997 or later: Your payment date is based on your birth date:
- Birthdays from the 1st to 10th: Paid on the second Wednesday of the month
- Birthdays from the 11th to 20th: Paid on the third Wednesday
- Birthdays from the 21st to 31st: Paid on the fourth Wednesday
This means that in June 2025, some beneficiaries won’t receive their payments until June 11, June 18, or even June 25, depending on their birth date.
Who Is Most Affected?
Beneficiaries who:
- Rely solely on Social Security income
- Are unaware of the payment calendar
- Receive payments later in the month due to their birth date
… may feel the strain of the delay most acutely. This is especially true if they were expecting a deposit at the beginning of the month.
Though the payment is not technically delayed, the perception of a late check often stems from confusion about the SSA’s payment structure.
SSA’s Broader Challenges
The SSA has been under pressure in recent years, dealing with budget constraints and staffing reductions. According to reports, the agency has lost over 7,000 workers since 2020, affecting its ability to provide timely service and respond to inquiries.
These issues don’t directly affect when payments are sent—but they can lead to longer response times if beneficiaries have questions or issues with their benefits.
Tips for Beneficiaries
To avoid confusion or stress related to timing of benefits, here are a few practical steps:
- Check the SSA Payment Calendar Regularly
Familiarize yourself with the official schedule to know when you can expect your payment. - Set Up a My Social Security Account
This online tool allows beneficiaries to view upcoming payments, verify benefit amounts, update personal details, and manage direct deposit. - Use Direct Deposit
Direct deposit ensures faster and more secure access to your benefits. If you haven’t set it up yet, you can do so through your account or by contacting your bank. - Plan Budgeting Around Payment Dates
Knowing your specific payment date allows you to plan bills, purchases, and savings more effectively, reducing financial stress between checks.
What To Do If Your Payment Is Missing
If your payment hasn’t arrived by the expected date:
- Wait at least three business days before contacting the SSA
- Call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778)
- Visit your local SSA office (you can locate your nearest one through the SSA office locator tool).