Millions of retirees and their families across the U.S. are preparing for their next monthly Social Security payment, with the average check in May 2025 reaching $2,002.39. This marks the first time the average monthly Social Security benefit has exceeded $2,000. With payments going out in just a few days, here’s what you need to know about the upcoming schedule and how much you might receive.
Average Social Security Payments in May 2025
In May 2025, the average Social Security check for retired workers was $2,002.39, reflecting a small increase of $2.42 from the previous month’s average of $1,999.97. The amount you receive depends on factors like how much you earned during your working years, when you choose to start claiming benefits, and whether you’re married or not.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) also provides insight into how benefits change depending on when you retire. For example, retirees who wait until age 70 to claim benefits can receive significantly higher payments compared to those who start at age 62.
Social Security Payments in July 2025
The SSA follows a set schedule for distributing Social Security payments each month. For July 2025, payments will be made on the following Wednesdays:
July 9 – For beneficiaries with birthdays between the 1st and 10th of the month.
July 16 – For beneficiaries with birthdays between the 11th and 20th.
July 23 – For beneficiaries with birthdays between the 21st and 31st.
In addition, recipients who began claiming benefits before May 1997 received their payment on July 3.
Maximum Social Security Benefits by Age
The amount you could receive from Social Security depends on your age at retirement. Here are the maximum possible benefits based on age:
At age 62 (early retirement): $2,831 (reduced payments for early retirement)
At full retirement age (66/67 years old, depending on your birth year): $4,018 (no reductions or additional credits)
At age 70 (maximum benefits): $5,108 (increased payments due to delayed retirement credits)
How to Maximize Your Social Security Benefits
While not everyone will receive the maximum benefit, there are strategies to increase your Social Security payments:
Earn a higher salary: In 2025, the maximum income subject to Social Security tax is $176,100. Earnings above this threshold will not contribute to higher benefits. The SSA uses your 35 highest-earning years to calculate your benefits, so earning more can increase your monthly payment.
Work longer: The maximum Social Security benefit is calculated using your 35 highest-earning years. If you work fewer than 35 years, the SSA will include years with zero earnings, which will lower your average.
Delay your claim: One of the most effective strategies for maximizing your Social Security payments is to delay your claim until age 70. Doing so allows you to receive delayed retirement credits, which can significantly increase your monthly benefit. If you claim at age 62, your benefit will be reduced annually until you reach full retirement age (FRA), but waiting will result in a higher payment.
Requirements for the Maximum Social Security Benefit in 2026
To qualify for the maximum benefit of $5,108 in 2025, you need to meet certain conditions:
High lifetime earnings: Only individuals with the highest 35 years of earnings will qualify for the maximum benefit.
Delayed retirement: Delaying your claim until age 70 increases your benefit by about 8% per year.
The Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) may also affect future benefits, so it’s essential to stay informed about any adjustments that will impact your Social Security payments in 2026 and beyond.
For those waiting for their Social Security payment this week, the next checks will be distributed according to the SSA’s Wednesday schedule. Payments for beneficiaries with birthdays between the 11th and 20th will be made on July 16. Understanding how Social Security payments are calculated and when they are distributed can help you plan for your financial future. If you want to maximize your benefits, consider strategies like delaying your claim and working longer to ensure you receive the highest possible amount.
