Retirement beneficiaries in the U.S. will receive their Social Security payments in July 2025 according to a fixed schedule set by the Social Security Administration (SSA). Those who started receiving benefits before May 1997 or who collect Supplemental Security Income (SSI) will get their payments on July 3. Others will receive theirs based on their birth date.
Full Payment Schedule for July 2025:
- July 3 – For those who began receiving benefits before May 1997 or receive SSI.
- July 9 – For people born between the 1st and 10th of the month.
- July 16 – For birthdays between the 11th and 20th.
- July 23 – For birthdays between the 21st and 31st.
How Much Will You Receive?
Your benefit amount depends on the age at which you claimed retirement and your lifetime earnings:
| Claiming Age | Maximum Monthly Benefit |
|---|---|
| Age 62 | $2,831 |
| Age 67 (Full Retirement Age) | $4,018 |
| Age 70 | $5,108 |
As of May 2025, the average monthly benefit was approximately $2,002.39, reflecting a 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) to keep up with inflation.
Big Change Coming: Paper Checks to End in October 2025
Starting October 1, 2025, all Social Security payments will be electronic only. Paper checks will no longer be issued. Beneficiaries must switch to one of these options:
- Direct deposit to a bank account
- Prepaid debit card (like the DirectExpress card)
- Rare exceptions through the Treasury Department for those without digital access
Deadline to switch: September 30, 2025. Don’t wait until the last minute—high volumes of requests are expected in late September.
Tips to Stay Ready:
- Keep your bank information updated with the SSA.
- Have proof of income and identity ready if applying for benefits.
- Remember, electronic payments are safer and reduce risks of loss, theft, or delays.
This move to digital payments is meant to increase efficiency and security for millions of Americans who depend on Social Security every month.
