Big changes are coming for millions of Americans who rely on Social Security. Starting in 2025, some retirees could see monthly payments as high as $5,108 — a welcome boost thanks to new cost-of-living adjustments and delayed retirement incentives. But not everyone will get that much. So, who qualifies? And when will the money arrive?
Here’s everything you need to know in plain English.
What’s Behind the Bigger Check?
The maximum Social Security benefit is increasing in 2025, in large part due to inflation and the annual Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA). For 2025, the COLA is expected to boost payments by around 2.5%, helping benefits keep up with rising costs.
But even with the increase, $5,108 a month isn’t something everyone will see. That number is the highest possible monthly payment for someone who:
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Waited until age 70 to start collecting Social Security
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Worked at least 35 years
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Earned a high income each of those years, hitting the annual income cap for Social Security taxes
In short: this is the upper tier of benefits, usually seen by people with strong earnings and late retirement.
What If I Don’t Qualify for the Max?
Most people won’t receive the full $5,108 — and that’s totally normal. The average monthly Social Security payment for retired workers is about $1,976 in 2025, which still reflects the COLA increase.
If you started collecting benefits earlier (say at age 62), or if your income was more modest over the years, your monthly check will be lower. That’s because early retirees receive a reduced benefit, while those who wait until full retirement age (around 67 for most people today) or later get a boost.
Payment Dates to Mark on Your Calendar
Social Security payments are sent out on a staggered schedule, depending on your birth date. Here’s the breakdown for April 2025, which gives a good idea of what to expect going forward:
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If your birthday falls between the 1st and 10th, you’ll get paid on April 9
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Birthdays from the 11th to the 20th will be paid on April 16
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If you were born between the 21st and the 31st, your check comes on April 23
If you’ve been receiving benefits since before May 1997, your payment usually comes earlier — typically on the 3rd of the month.
How Do I Know If I’m Getting the Increase?
To find out what your 2025 payment will be, you can:
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Log into your “my Social Security” account at ssa.gov
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Wait for the official mailed notice that the SSA sends each year with your benefit amount
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Call the Social Security Administration (SSA) directly if you need help
It’s a good idea to check your account or contact SSA, especially if you’ve recently moved, changed bank accounts, or had other life changes that might affect how and when your payment arrives.
Should You Wait to Retire?
Delaying retirement can lead to a significantly higher monthly payment — in some cases, hundreds of dollars more each month. That’s why the highest earners who wait until 70 can qualify for that $5,108 benefit.
But everyone’s situation is different. You’ll want to weigh your personal finances, health, and lifestyle plans when deciding when to file.
Still, even if you don’t qualify for the maximum amount, the COLA increase in 2025 means every Social Security recipient will get a bit more in their check — and that’s good news during times of high costs and uncertainty.
