If you’re one of the millions of Americans depending on Social Security each month, you’re probably wondering if your $1,720 check might go up this May. With the rising cost of groceries, gas, and other essentials, every extra dollar matters. So, is a bump in benefits coming your way next month? Here’s what we know — and what you should keep an eye on.
A Quick Look at How Social Security Benefits Change
Every year, Social Security payments are adjusted based on inflation. This process is known as the Cost-of-Living Adjustment, or COLA. It’s meant to help retirees and other beneficiaries keep up with the rising cost of living. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses data from the Consumer Price Index (CPI-W) — a measure of inflation — to calculate the COLA.
These changes don’t happen every month, though. COLA increases are determined once a year, and the new benefit amounts usually kick in each January.
What Happened in 2025 So Far?
At the beginning of 2025, the SSA applied a 2.5% COLA to benefits. That meant an average boost of around $50 per month for most recipients. The average Social Security check rose from $1,927 in 2024 to about $1,976 in 2025.
So if you’re currently receiving $1,720 per month, that amount already includes the 2025 increase. Unfortunately, there’s no additional adjustment coming in May. Social Security checks will stay the same until the next COLA is announced — and that won’t happen until later in the year.
Why You Might Hear About “Double Payments” in May
Here’s where some confusion tends to pop up: people might notice that SSI (Supplemental Security Income) recipients will get two payments in May — one on May 1, and another on May 30. But that doesn’t mean their monthly benefit is going up.
That second payment is just an early deposit for June. Because June 1 falls on a weekend this year, the SSA is sending that payment out a little early. It’s not a bonus, and it doesn’t apply to all Social Security beneficiaries — just those on SSI.
So, Will Checks Go Up Again This Year?
As of now, no additional increases are planned for 2025. The next possible bump in your benefits would come in January 2026, based on inflation data collected later this year. The SSA will study price trends during July, August, and September of 2025 and announce the 2026 COLA in October.
If inflation keeps rising, there’s a chance for a more generous increase next year. But for now, your current monthly check — whether it’s $1,720 or more — will remain steady through the rest of the year.
How to Stay on Top of Social Security News
To avoid surprises and make sure you get all the latest updates, it’s a good idea to set up a “my Social Security” account at SSA.gov. Through your account, you can check payment dates, view your benefit history, and see any upcoming changes.
If you prefer paper, the SSA still mails out notices about COLA increases every fall — but going digital gives you real-time access.
Bottom Line
If you’re counting on your $1,720 Social Security check to stretch a little further in May 2025, there’s no extra increase coming this month. The annual COLA adjustment already took effect in January, and the next possible raise won’t be announced until October, for a January 2026 rollout.
That said, if you receive SSI, you’ll notice a second payment at the end of May — but remember, that’s just an early deposit for June, not a raise.
Staying informed and planning ahead can make a big difference. Social Security may not be increasing this spring, but knowing what to expect — and when — helps you stay one step ahead.
