If your birthday falls on just the right dates, today’s Social Security deposit might be the biggest check you’ve ever received—up to a whopping $5,108. With July’s first round of payments hitting bank accounts today, thousands of retirees are checking their balances to see where they land on the Social Security scale. Whether you’re getting the maximum payout or something closer to the average, here’s what you need to know.
Why July 3 Is a Payday for Millions
Social Security payments don’t go out to everyone on the same day—they’re staggered based on your birthdate. If you were born between the 11th and 20th of any month, your monthly check typically arrives on the second Wednesday of the month—which, this year, falls on July 3.
So if you woke up to a direct deposit today, that’s why. And depending on your work history and the age you started claiming benefits, your check could vary significantly.
What’s the Maximum You Can Get?
The maximum Social Security benefit in 2025 is an impressive $5,108 per month, but only a small number of retirees actually receive that much. To qualify, you must:
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Have worked for 35 years at the maximum taxable income level (which is over $160,000/year),
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And delayed claiming your benefits until age 70.
Most people claim earlier—and earn less. That’s why the average Social Security check for a retired worker in 2025 is about $2,002/month.
Still, even if you didn’t hit the max, there are three key payout levels based on when you chose to start your benefits:
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Claiming at 62 (earliest age): max monthly benefit is around $2,831
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Claiming at full retirement age (67): up to $4,018/month
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Waiting until 70: the full $5,108/month, if you qualify
Delaying can make a big difference—but it depends on your health, savings, and how long you plan to work.
Cost-of-Living Boosts Help All Recipients
Thanks to a 2.5% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) for 2025, everyone receiving Social Security saw a slight bump this year. It’s not massive, but for seniors coping with inflation, every extra dollar counts.
If you’re not sure how much you’re supposed to receive, or think something’s off with your payment, the best move is to log into your mySocialSecurity account at ssa.gov.
What You Should Do Now
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Check your payment: Was it what you expected? If not, review your SSA account.
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Understand your benefit level: Are you getting the full amount possible for your claiming age?
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Plan for taxes: If your total income (including Social Security) exceeds certain thresholds, part of your benefit may be taxable.
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Think long-term: If you’re not yet claiming benefits, consider your timing. Waiting longer means more money—sometimes thousands more per year.
