Millions of retirees in the United States rely on monthly Social Security payments to meet their basic needs, and Americans are entitled to receive their payments within a few days. The next payment is scheduled for Wednesday, August 20, 2025, and is allocated to a specific group of beneficiaries.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) pays out monthly benefits to retirees, people with disabilities, and the families of deceased workers. Because there are several payment methods and approximately 70 million beneficiaries, not everyone receives their funds at the same time.
Most Social Security recipients receive payments based on their birth date. However, there are some exceptions—those who began receiving benefits before May 1997 or who also qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
SSI is a federal program that provides monthly financial assistance to people with disabilities, the blind, and adults aged 65 and older who meet certain income requirements. Recipients in these categories are typically paid within the first week.
Who will receive Social Security payments on August 20?
According to the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) schedule, payments are distributed in three monthly rounds, depending on the beneficiary’s date of birth:
Friday, August 1: SSI payments and retirement benefits for those who have been collecting checks since before May 1997 and retirees who also collect SSI benefits.
Wednesday, August 13: Retirement, spousal and survivor benefits for those born between the 1st and 10th of any calendar month
Wednesday, August 20: Benefits for those born between the 11th and 20th
Wednesday, August 27: Benefits for those with birthdays between the 21st and 31st
Friday, August 29: SSI payments. This payment would usually come at the first of the month for September. However, due to September 1 falling on Labor Day, a national holiday, the payment will be made slightly earlier.
This group includes retirees, people with disabilities and other beneficiaries who receive regular payments from Social Security.
How much money will you receive?
The exact benefit amount you receive is determined by your work history and the type of Social Security benefit. In 2025, the average monthly payment for retirees will be approximately $1,907. However, this may vary:
High earners who have worked and contributed for many years could receive up to $4,873 per month.
Disabled workers (SSDI) receive an average of $1,537 monthly.
Widows, widowers, and dependents’ payments are adjusted based on their family circumstances.
How to find out your benefit amount
To know your exact benefit, log into your My Social Security account at ssa.gov. If you’re enrolled, you may also get notifications by mail or text message.
What to do if your payment doesn’t arrive
If your payment is missing:
Wait at least 3 business days after the scheduled date
Contact the SSA at 1-800-772-1213
