Millions of Americans depend on Social Security benefits to cover essential expenses like rent, food, and healthcare. Understanding exactly when those monthly payments will arrive is key for budgeting and peace of mind.
In April 2025, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will issue payments on a staggered schedule, based primarily on recipients’ birth dates. Here’s a breakdown of when checks are expected to be deposited — and what to do if yours is delayed.
When are Social Security checks sent in April 2025?
The SSA issues retirement, disability (SSDI), and survivor benefit payments based on the day of the month you were born. In April, those payments will be deposited on the following Wednesdays:
- April 9: For people born between the 1st and 10th
- April 16: For people born between the 11th and 20th
- April 23: For people born between the 21st and 31st
This schedule applies to those who began receiving Social Security after May 1997. If you’re not sure which category you fall into, check your my Social Security account online at ssa.gov.
What if I started receiving benefits before May 1997?
If you began collecting benefits before May 1997 — or if you receive both Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) — then your payment typically arrives on the 3rd of each month, regardless of your birthday.
For April, this means you should have received your deposit on Wednesday, April 3.
When were SSI payments made in April 2025?
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits are normally paid on the 1st of each month. For April 2025, SSI recipients were paid on Tuesday, April 1.
However, it’s worth noting that in some months, beneficiaries may receive two SSI payments, while in others they might receive none. This happens when the 1st falls on a weekend or federal holiday.
For example:
- May 2025: SSI payments will go out on May 1 and May 30 (June’s payment comes early).
- August 2025: Payments arrive August 1 and August 29 (advance for September).
Direct deposit vs mailed checks: What to expect
Roughly 99% of Social Security recipients receive their payments via direct deposit, which is the fastest and most reliable method. These deposits usually appear in bank accounts by 9 a.m. local time on the scheduled date.
Those receiving paper checks may need to wait several days for delivery, depending on the U.S. Postal Service. If your check doesn’t arrive on time, allow three mailing days before contacting the SSA at 1-800-772-1213.
What to do if your payment is late
If you haven’t received your deposit or check:
- Check your bank account or mailbox again the next day
- Allow at least three mailing days for delays
- If there’s still no payment, contact the Social Security Administration
You can also sign in to your my Social Security account to check your payment status and confirm your banking information is accurate.
Looking ahead to May 2025
Planning ahead can make a big difference. Here’s the expected Social Security payment schedule for May 2025:
- May 1: SSI
- May 3: Social Security (pre-1997)
- May 8: Birthdays 1–10
- May 15: Birthdays 11–20
- May 22: Birthdays 21–31
- May 30: SSI (early June payment)
Keep an eye out for any updates from the SSA, especially around holidays, as they can shift the timing slightly.
Bottom line
Knowing your exact payment date in April 2025 can help you stay financially prepared. Whether you’re receiving retirement, disability, or SSI benefits, keeping track of the SSA’s schedule — and checking your direct deposit or mailbox — is key.
For the latest updates on Social Security benefits, payment changes, and eligibility, follow our coverage at FingerLakes1.com.
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