Every month, more than 70 million people in the United States rely on Social Security payments, which include retirement pensions, disability assistance, and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments.
Because of the large number of beneficiaries, payments are not made on a single date, but rather throughout the month based on specific criteria.
Social Security payment dates in August 2025
Payments are generally made based on the beneficiary’s date of birth, though there are some exceptions. Those who began receiving benefits before May 1997, or who also receive SSI, have different payment dates.
Key dates for August 2025:
Friday, August 1: Payment for SSI beneficiaries and for those receiving benefits prior to May 1997 (including retirement, spousal or survivor benefits).
Wednesday, August 13: Payment for people born between the 1st and 10th of any month.
Wednesday, August 20: Payment for people born between the 11th and 20th.
Wednesday, August 27: Payment for people born between the 21st and 31st.
Friday, August 29: Early SSI payment for September, as September 1 (when it is usually paid) falls on the Labor Day holiday.
Payments are deposited electronically or sent by check according to the beneficiary’s registered preference.
How much can you receive in Social Security benefits?
The amount received by each person varies according to their earnings history and the age at which they choose to retire. According to information from the Social Security Administration (SSA), in May 2025:
The average monthly retirement benefit reached $2,002.39, surpassing $2,000 for the first time.
SSI beneficiaries, a total of 7.4 million people, received an average monthly benefit of $718.30.
The maximum possible amounts in 2025 are as follows:
Retirement at age 62: up to $2,831 per month.
Retirement at age 67 (full age): up to $4,018 per month.
Deferred retirement at age 70: up to $5,108 per month.
In addition, The Senior Citizens League predicts a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) of approximately 2.6% in 2026. The SSA will make the official adjustment in October 2025.
