The Social Security Administration (SSA) has released its most recent data, which shows the average retirement benefit Social Security payment for July 2025.
This month, retired workers in the United States will receive an average check of $1,900.75, serving as a benchmark for millions of Americans navigating retirement in an era of inflation, benefit concerns, and shifting economic policies.
Who Gets the Average Payment?
The $1,900 average applies only to retired workers, not those receiving SSDI or Supplemental Security Income. The amount that each person receives is influenced by:
The age they retired (those who delayed retirement until 70 receive more)
Their lifetime earnings
Whether they’re filing individually or as part of a married couple
Social Security Payment Breakdown by Recipient Type
Here’s how Social Security payments differ depending on your situation:
All beneficiaries (including retirees, spouses, and disabled workers): $1,777.01
Aged couple, both receiving benefits: $3,035.08
Aged widow or widower: $1,773.39
Disabled worker: $1,537.16
Disabled worker with spouse and children: $2,720.70
These averages reflect payments before deductions for Medicare premiums or federal income taxes, meaning your actual deposit may be lower.
COLA’s Role in Boosting Payments
In January 2025, Social Security recipients received a 3.2% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), which helped to boost payments as prices rose. However, this was significantly lower than the COLA of 8.7% in 2023.
Advocates caution that modest COLAs do not fully keep up with senior living expenses, particularly for necessities such as housing, food, and prescription drugs.
When Will You Receive Your July 2025 Check?
Social Security payments are sent based on your birth date:
July 10: If born between the 1st and 10th
July 17: If born between the 11th and 20th
July 24: If born between the 21st and 31st
Beneficiaries who started receiving payments before May 1997 are paid on the 3rd of the month, regardless of birth date.
How to Check Your Social Security Payment
If you’re unsure about your benefit amount or payment schedule, the SSA recommends:
Logging into your my Social Security account
Calling 1-800-772-1213 for assistance
Setting up direct deposit to avoid postal delays
What This Means for Your Retirement
Knowing the average Social Security benefit can help you evaluate your financial plan.
If your paycheck is less than $1,900, it may be time to reconsider supplemental savings, look into part-time employment opportunities, or investigate additional government programs such as SNAP or Medicare Savings Programs.
Meanwhile, questions about Social Security’s long-term solvency persist. A 2025 report from the SSA’s trustees warned that unless Congress intervenes, the trust fund could be depleted by 2033, potentially resulting in reduced benefits for future retirees.
Bottom Line
In July 2025, the average Social Security retirement benefit is $1,900.75, providing a critical lifeline for millions of seniors.
While the number provides a snapshot of monthly support, individual circumstances may differ. Staying informed, reviewing your benefit statements, and planning ahead are all critical steps toward securing your retirement future.
