Receiving the last Social Security check in May 2025 is only possible if you meet specific eligibility requirements.
Firstly, it’s essential that you have submitted your application for Social Security benefits and have received approval from the Social Security Administration (SSA).
Additionally, you must currently be receiving retirement benefits or be expecting your first direct deposit—as long as you have not received any payments before May 1997.
Important Note for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Recipients
If you are currently receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) along with retirement benefits, you are not eligible to receive this final May payment.
This particular round of payments is only for those whose birthdays fall between the 21st and 31st of any month. The year or month of birth does not affect your eligibility as long as all other criteria are fulfilled.
How Much Can You Expect? Is $1,999 Your Social Security Payment?
The $1,999 figure is not a guaranteed amount for everyone. It represents the average monthly benefit received by retired workers across the United States. Your individual payment will be based on several personal factors:
- Age at which you claimed benefits
- Years of employment
- Lifetime earnings history
Here’s a breakdown of the maximum possible Social Security payments depending on when you file:
| Age When You Filed | Maximum Monthly Benefit (2025) |
|---|---|
| Age 70 | $5,108 |
| Full Retirement Age (FRA) | $4,018 |
| Age 62 (Early Filing) | $2,831 |
May 2025 Social Security Payment Schedule
The final Social Security payment for May 2025 will be made on May 28, but only if your birth date falls between the 21st and 31st. Here’s a helpful guide to determine when you should expect your deposit:
| Birthday Range | May 2025 Payment Date | Next Payment Date (June 2025) |
|---|---|---|
| 1st – 10th | May 14 | June 11 |
| 11th – 20th | May 21 | June 18 |
| 21st – 31st | May 28 | June 25 |
What If You Get Both SSI and Retirement Benefits?
If you qualify for both SSI and retirement benefits, you’ll receive two separate payments. In May, your SSI will arrive on May 30, while your retirement benefits will be delivered on June 3. Make sure to mark both dates on your calendar to avoid confusion or delay in financial planning.
Key Takeaways
- You must have filed and been approved for Social Security retirement benefits.
- Eligibility for the May 28 payment requires a birth date between the 21st and 31st.
- The average retirement benefit is $1,999, but the actual amount varies.
- Maximum benefits can reach up to $5,108 depending on your filing age.
- Separate payment dates apply if you’re on SSI and retirement simultaneously.
Understanding the Social Security payment schedule and eligibility criteria is essential to managing your benefits effectively.
If your birthday falls between the 21st and 31st, and you meet all other conditions, you can expect your final May 2025 payment on May 28.
Whether you receive the average benefit of $1,999 or a different amount, staying informed ensures you can plan your finances confidently and accurately for the months ahead.
FAQs
Can I receive the May 28 Social Security payment if I started benefits before May 1997?
No. To qualify for the May 28 payment, you must not have received benefits before May 1997.
Why did I receive my payment earlier than May 28?
Payment dates are based on your birthdate. If your birthday is between the 1st–10th or 11th–20th, your payment would have arrived earlier.
Will everyone receive exactly $1,999 in Social Security?
No. $1,999 is only an average. Actual payment amounts depend on your earnings history, retirement age, and work credits.