If you’re a retiree expecting your Social Security payment today, Wednesday, July 9, you’re not alone — and you may be wondering exactly how much money should be landing in your account. With cost-of-living adjustments pushing benefits higher in 2025, this month’s checks are bigger than ever. But here’s the thing: not everyone will receive the same amount — and if you’re not careful, you might not even realize if you’re being shortchanged.
Let’s break it all down so you know what to expect, how to confirm your payment amount, and what to do if your check doesn’t arrive.
How Much Will Retirees Be Paid Today?
For 2025, the average Social Security retirement benefit is $1,702 per month. This amount is based on national averages and reflects the historic 8.2% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) that took effect in January — the largest increase in years.
But that $1,702 figure isn’t what everyone receives. Your actual monthly payment is calculated individually and depends on:
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Your lifetime earnings
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The age you started collecting benefits
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Whether you’re receiving benefits on your own record, or through a spouse or survivor claim
So while many retirees will see a payment close to $1,702, some could be getting over $3,000 per month, while others — especially those who retired early or with lower earnings — may receive less.
Who’s Receiving a Payment on July 9?
The Social Security Administration pays benefits on a staggered schedule each month, based on your date of birth.
If your birthday falls between the 1st and 10th of any month, your benefit is scheduled for the second Wednesday, which is July 9 this month. Payments are typically sent via direct deposit or deposited to a Direct Express card.
So if your birthday is in that range and you already receive retirement benefits, your money should be hitting your account sometime today.
How to Check Your Exact Payment Amount
Want to know what you should be getting? The fastest way is to log in to your “My Social Security” account at SSA.gov.
There, you can:
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View your scheduled payment date
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See your monthly benefit amount
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Check deductions, such as Medicare premiums
This tool is especially helpful if your check is less than you expected, or if you want to plan your monthly budget down to the dollar.
What If You Didn’t Get Paid?
If your birthday falls between the 1st and 10th and your payment didn’t show up today, don’t panic just yet. Here’s what to do:
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Wait at least one full business day — some banks post deposits later in the day.
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Double-check your “My Social Security” account to confirm the payment date.
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Make sure your banking info is correct, especially if you recently changed accounts.
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If your payment still hasn’t arrived by Friday, July 11, call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213.
Missed payments are rare, but technical errors or outdated account info can delay your check.
Why the COLA Boost Matters in 2025
This year’s 8.2% COLA was implemented to help retirees cope with rising prices for essentials like groceries, gas, and housing. That increase pushed the average benefit from around $1,575 in 2024 to $1,702 in 2025 — an extra $127 a month for the average retiree.
But if inflation continues to rise, advocates warn that even these increases may not go far enough. That’s why it’s critical to stay informed — and make sure you’re receiving every dollar you’re entitled to.
Final Thoughts
Today’s Social Security payments are among the highest ever issued, thanks to the COLA increase for 2025. But whether you’re getting the full amount depends on your work history, your retirement age, and your benefit type.
So if you’re in the July 9 payment group and your bank account just got a boost — great. But take a few minutes to double-check your amount, review your account, and make sure you’re not being underpaid.
