As we approach 2025, Social Security recipients are preparing for their first checks of the new year. Understanding the payment schedule, the impact of cost-of-living adjustments (COLA), and how your birth date influences when you receive your Social Security check can help you better manage your finances in retirement. Here’s everything you need to know about Social Security payments in 2025.
When Will You Receive Your Social Security Payment?
Social Security payments are typically issued on the second, third, or fourth Wednesday of each month, based on your birth date. However, the arrival of your monthly check depends on when you were born. The general rule is that if your birthday falls between the 1st and 10th, your payment will arrive on the second Wednesday of the month; if your birthday falls between the 11th and 20th, it’s the third Wednesday; and if it’s between the 21st and 31st, your payment will arrive on the fourth Wednesday.
What Is the COLA for 2025?
The Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) for 2025 has been confirmed at 2.5%. This adjustment helps Social Security benefits keep pace with inflation, ensuring that beneficiaries’ purchasing power doesn’t erode over time. According to economist David Payne of Kiplinger, this 2.5% increase mirrors earlier forecasts and reflects the ongoing economic conditions, including rising consumer prices.
In November 2024, the average Social Security monthly check for all retirement beneficiaries was reported to be $1,876.95, according to the Social Security Administration (SSA). This means that recipients will see a modest increase in their monthly payments starting in 2025.
How Much Will the Average Social Security Check Be in 2025?
Thanks to the 2.5% COLA increase, the average monthly Social Security benefit in 2025 will rise accordingly. Based on the November 2024 figures, the average check for retirees will likely increase by approximately $46.92, bringing the total average monthly payment to about $1,923.87.
However, it’s important to remember that the exact amount you receive will depend on your lifetime earnings and the age at which you begin receiving benefits. If you are interested in comparing your Social Security benefits to the national averages, it might be useful to consider how your payment stacks up by age.
Schedule: Social Security Payments in 2025
Here’s a breakdown of the confirmed Social Security payment dates for 2025, organized by birth date:
| Birth Date | January | February | March |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st – 10th | Jan 8 | Feb 12 | Mar 12 |
| 11th – 20th | Jan 15 | Feb 19 | Mar 19 |
| 21st – 31st | Jan 22 | Feb 26 | Mar 26 |
| Birth Date | April | May | June |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st – 10th | Apr 9 | May 14 | Jun 11 |
| 11th – 20th | Apr 16 | May 21 | Jun 18 |
| 21st – 31st | Apr 23 | May 28 | Jun 25 |
| Birth Date | July | August | September |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st – 10th | Jul 9 | Aug 13 | Sep 10 |
| 11th – 20th | Jul 16 | Aug 20 | Sep 17 |
| 21st – 31st | Jul 23 | Aug 27 | Sep 24 |
| Birth Date | October | November | December |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st – 10th | Oct 8 | Nov 12 | Dec 10 |
| 11th – 20th | Oct 15 | Nov 19 | Dec 17 |
| 21st – 31st | Oct 22 | Nov 26 | Dec 24 |
What to Do if Your Payment Date Falls on a Holiday or Weekend
If your payment date happens to fall on a federal holiday or weekend, don’t worry—your payment will be issued on the weekday immediately prior to the holiday or weekend. For example, if the regular payment date falls on a Monday holiday, your payment will likely arrive the preceding Friday. Be sure to check the official Social Security Administration website or your account to verify the payment dates.
How to Manage Your Social Security Account Online
If you haven’t already done so, consider setting up a my Social Security account. This online account is a secure way to manage your personal Social Security information and make updates easily. With a my Social Security account, you can:
- Request a replacement Social Security card
- Check the status of an application
- Estimate your future benefits
- Monitor your COLA updates
- Update direct deposit information
- Receive your Social Security 1099 form for tax purposes
If you’re concerned about mail theft or frequently travel, this service also allows you to opt out of paper notices and receive them electronically.
Conclusion
As we look ahead to 2025, Social Security payments will continue to play an essential role in the lives of millions of retirees, disabled individuals, and other beneficiaries. Understanding the payment schedule, staying informed about COLA adjustments, and taking advantage of the resources available through your online account can help you manage your benefits effectively and ensure a smoother experience.
Stay on top of these dates, and consider reviewing your financial situation to ensure that your retirement is secure and well-planned. Whether you’re already receiving Social Security or planning for the future, this information will help guide you through the next year of benefits.
To know about 5 common financial mistakes to avoid here, read our blogs.
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