Some seniors and SSI recipients may notice something unusual in their bank accounts this May — not one, not two, but possibly three payments.
No, it’s not a mistake or bonus check it’s the result of how the calendar lands this year. Understanding what’s happening and why can help you plan better, especially since there will be no SSI check in June.
Why Are There Three Payments?
Here’s what’s going on:
- SSI payments are typically made on the 1st of each month.
- However, when the 1st falls on a weekend or holiday, the payment is moved to the previous business day.
- In 2025, June 1 falls on a Sunday, so the June SSI payment will be issued early on May 30.
This means that SSI recipients will receive:
- May’s payment on May 1
- June’s payment early, on May 30
And for some individuals — like those who receive both SSI and Social Security, or who started benefits before May 1997 a third payment may arrive on May 2, because May 3 falls on a Saturday.
Full Payment Schedule for May 2025
- May 1: SSI recipients
- May 2: Social Security recipients with pre-May 1997 enrollment (and some dual beneficiaries)
- May 8: Birthdays between the 1st–10th
- May 15: Birthdays between the 11th–20th
- May 22: Birthdays between the 21st–31st
- May 30: Early SSI payment for June
Example: Who Gets What?
- Sarah, 70, receives SSI only. She’ll get two checks May 1 and May 30.
- Mike, 68, receives both SSI and Social Security since 1996. He could receive three payments: May 1, 2, and 30.
⚠️ Important: These are not bonus checks. The May 30 SSI payment is simply June’s check, sent early.
💡 Worried about your payments being reduced if you work? Here’s how working while on Social Security could affect your monthly checks.
Budgeting Tips for Triple Payment Month
Getting three payments in one month sounds great but remember, there’s no SSI in June. Plan ahead with these tips:
- Save the May 30 payment for June’s expenses like groceries or rent.
- Track eligibility: Changes in income, travel, or living arrangements can affect SSI.
- Go digital: Use direct deposit for faster access and fewer delays.
- Use your mySSA account to check exact payment dates and amounts at ssa.gov.
What’s Ahead
- The 2025 payments already reflect this year’s COLA increase.
- Early estimates for 2026 COLA range between 3.2% to 3.8%.
- Stay updated with SSA announcements and keep an eye on any legislative proposals that could affect your benefits.
Final Thoughts
If you’re receiving SSI or Social Security, May 2025 could bring a financial twist possibly three payments in one month. Just remember, it’s not extra money it’s early money.
Plan wisely, save where you can, and check with the SSA or your financial advisor if you have questions. It’s always better to prepare than be surprised.
📞 Call SSA at 1-800-772-1213 or visit ssa.gov for official updates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is this a bonus or extra money?
A: No. The second SSI check in May is simply your June payment sent early. It’s not a bonus so budget carefully to cover June expenses.
Q: Will I get a check in June?
A: If you receive SSI only, you won’t get a payment in June because you already received it on May 30. If you get Social Security, your June benefit will arrive on its regular schedule.
Q: What should I do with the May 30 SSI payment?
A: It’s smart to set it aside for June, especially for bills, groceries, or rent. Treat it as if you received it on June 1 to avoid running short later.
