We usually think of Social Security payments as happening once a month. However, in some cases, beneficiaries may receive two payments within the same week. In April 2025, the Social Security Administration (SSA), which helps millions of retired and disabled individuals in the U.S., made its regular payments. Now, let’s see who will receive two payments in the first week of May 2025 and the reasons for this.
How does Social Security payment work?
The SSA’s payment system works in a very systematic way. Each month’s payments are divided into three parts, and it depends on the beneficiary’s date of birth:
- For those born between the 1st and 10th, the second Wednesday of each month is the payment day.
- For those born between the 11th and 20th, the money is received on the third Wednesday.
- And for those born between the 21st and 31st, the payment is made on the fourth Wednesday.
This system is designed so that there is not too much traffic on a single day and everyone gets their money on time.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI): A separate assistance program
Along with Social Security, SSA also runs another important scheme, which is called Supplemental Security Income (SSI). This is for those people who cannot work due to severe disability or whose income is very low. Getting SSI benefits depends on some other conditions, such as how many people are there in the house, what is the living situation, etc.
Why two payments in the same week?
Now the question is, how and why are there two Social Security payments in the same week?
Actually, this situation arises when SSI and Social Security payments come in the same week due to the calendar. Both payments come under different schemes and both have their own schedules.
For example, in May 2025, the first SSI payment will come on May 1 (Thursday), while the second payment will be made on May 30 (Friday) because June 1 falls on a Sunday. SSA rules that if a payment date falls on a weekend or federal holiday, it is sent the day before.
So people who receive both SSI and Social Security may receive two payments the first week of May – one under SSI and one under retirement or disability.
Pre-1997 beneficiaries: A special arrangement
SSA has also clarified that beneficiaries who began receiving Social Security before May 1997 are paid on the 3rd of every month under a different arrangement, regardless of their birth date.
So some beneficiaries may receive payments in three different ways:
- SSI – on May 1
- Social Security – on May 3 (if they are older beneficiaries)
- As per the usual schedule – such as the second, third or fourth Wednesday
What is the amount of the payment?
Now that we understand the time and date, it is also important to know how much money is received?
- Social Security:
- If you retire at the age of 62, on average, you get $2,831 per month.
- If you retire at the age of 67, this amount can be up to $3,822.
- And if you wait until 70, the maximum benefit can go up to $5,108 per month.
- SSI:
- The maximum amount for an individual is $967 per month.
- Couples filing together can get up to $1,450.
- If you are caring for a beneficiary and fall into the category of “essential person,” you can get $484 monthly in assistance.
Conclusion: Timely information, right benefits
Social Security and SSI are both among the most important social security programs in the US. If you or someone you know is eligible for these plans, it’s important to understand when and how to receive payments. In May 2025, some people will be receiving payments twice in the same week – and this could be an opportunity to improve your financial management.
If you want to make sure you get both payments, be sure to log on to the SSA website to check your status or consult a certified financial advisor.
FAQs
Q. Who receives Social Security payments on the fourth Wednesday of the month?
A. Those born between the 21st and 31st of any month.
Q. Why are there two Social Security payments in the same week?
A. This happens when regular Social Security and SSI payment dates fall in the same week.
Q. Who qualifies for Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?
A. Individuals with severe disabilities and low income.
Q. What is the average monthly Social Security payment at age 62?
A. Around $2,831.
Q. When will May 2025 SSI payments be sent?
A. On May 1 and May 30, due to the weekend adjustment.