Millions of Americans are about to see extra cash land in their bank accounts — but only if they’re on the list. The final round of Social Security payments for May 2025 is scheduled to hit on Wednesday, May 28, and it comes with the new 2.5% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) already baked in. If your birthday falls late in the month and you started receiving benefits after 1997, you’re likely one of the lucky recipients. Not sure if you’re included? Keep reading — this payout could be bigger than you think.
Who’s Getting Paid on May 28?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a staggered payment schedule based on your birth date to keep things organized. Here’s how it breaks down:
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If your birthday falls between the 21st and 31st of any month, and
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You started receiving benefits after May 1997,
then your check is scheduled to arrive Wednesday, May 28.
If you started receiving benefits before May 1997, your check likely came earlier — typically on the 3rd of the month. But because May 3 fell on a Saturday this year, that payment was pushed up to Friday, May 2 to avoid weekend delays.
What’s the Deal With the 2.5% COLA Increase?
Every year, the SSA adjusts Social Security benefits to help retirees and people with disabilities keep pace with inflation. For 2025, the Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) came in at 2.5% — a modest bump compared to past years, but still a meaningful increase for those living on fixed incomes.
Here’s what those increases look like in real terms:
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The average monthly benefit for retirees is now $1,997.13
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Early retirees (age 62) can receive up to $2,831 per month
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Full retirement age (67): up to $4,018
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Delayed retirement (age 70): maximum benefit of $5,108
While the increase is welcome, many recipients say it’s not enough to keep up with the rising costs of essentials like food, medication, and rent. That’s why it’s so important to stay aware of every boost that comes through.
What About SSI Recipients?
If you’re on Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you might notice something odd this month: two payments in May. That’s not a mistake — it’s actually a calendar quirk.
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Your regular SSI payment arrived on May 1
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The June SSI check is being sent early, on May 30, because June 1 falls on a Sunday
That means some beneficiaries will see double payments in one month, although it doesn’t mean you’re getting extra money overall — it just arrives early.
What to Do If You Don’t See Your Check
If you’re expecting a Social Security payment on May 28 but it doesn’t arrive:
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Wait three mailing days — sometimes banks take an extra day or two to process direct deposits
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Call your bank to make sure there isn’t a delay on their end
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Contact the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 or visit your local office if nothing shows up
And remember — most people are set up for direct deposit, so payments are generally on time. But technical glitches do happen, especially around holidays and end-of-month rushes.
Don’t Miss a Payment: Know Your Schedule
Knowing when your Social Security check is coming can help you plan bills, medical appointments, and monthly expenses. If you’re unsure of your payment schedule, the SSA offers an easy-to-use benefit calendar that shows exactly when your funds will land each month.
