As a financial planner for nearly 3 decades, I’ve seen how crucial a Social Security check is to a retiree’s budget. Knowing exactly when that payment will arrive isn’t just a convenience. It’s the key to financial stability.
The official Social Security payment schedule can be confusing, but my goal is to make it simple.
This guide provides the complete, verified payment calendars for 2025 and 2026. More importantly, we’ll address a critical change happening this year: the end of paper checks.
The U.S. Treasury is phasing out paper checks. According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), if you are one of the nearly 500,000 beneficiaries still receiving paper checks, you must switch to an electronic payment method by September 30, 2025, to avoid payment disruptions. We will cover your options, including Direct Deposit and the Direct Express® card, in detail below.
How to Find Your Social Security Payment Date: The Birth Date Rule
For more than 99% of beneficiaries, your payment date is determined by a simple rule based on the day of the month you were born.
Instantly Find Your Social Security Payment Dates
The calendars are a great reference, but for a direct answer without the guesswork, use the simple tool I’ve created below. It mirrors the quick diagnostic I’d use with a client to provide immediate clarity.
Just answer two questions based on your situation:
- 1. Select the range your birthday falls into.
- 2. Check the box if you receive SSI or started benefits before May 1997.
The finder will immediately display your next three personalized payment dates.
My Social Security Payment Finder
Stop searching through calendars. Answer two simple questions to see your next three payment dates instantly.
- If your birthday falls on the 1st – 10th of the month, you get paid on the Second Wednesday.
- If your birthday falls on the 11th – 20th of the month, you get paid on the Third Wednesday.
- If your birthday falls on the 21st – 31st of the month, you get paid on the Fourth Wednesday.
Below are the complete calendars so you can find your exact dates.
2025 Social Security Payment Schedule Calendar
| Month | Birth Date 1st – 10th (2nd Wednesday) | Birth Date 11th – 20th (3rd Wednesday) | Birth Date 21st – 31st (4th Wednesday) |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | January 8 | January 15 | January 22 |
| February | February 12 | February 19 | February 26 |
| March | March 12 | March 19 | March 26 |
| April | April 9 | April 16 | April 23 |
| May | May 14 | May 21 | May 28 |
| June | June 11 | June 18 | June 25 |
| July | July 9 | July 16 | July 23 |
| August | August 13 | August 20 | August 27 |
| September | September 10 | September 17 | September 24 |
| October | October 8 | October 15 | October 22 |
| November | November 12 | November 19 | November 26 |
| December | December 10 | December 17 | December 24 |
2026 Social Security Payment Schedule Calendar
| Month | Birth Date 1st – 10th (2nd Wednesday) | Birth Date 11th – 20th (3rd Wednesday) | Birth Date 21st – 31st (4th Wednesday) |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | January 14 | January 21 | January 28 |
| February | February 11 | February 18 | February 25 |
| March | March 11 | March 18 | March 25 |
| April | April 8 | April 15 | April 22 |
| May | May 13 | May 20 | May 27 |
| June | June 10 | June 17 | June 24 |
| July | July 8 | July 15 | July 22 |
| August | August 12 | August 19 | August 26 |
| September | September 9 | September 16 | September 23 |
| October | October 14 | October 21 | October 28 |
| November | November 11 | November 18 | November 25 |
| December | December 9 | December 16 | December 23 |
Exceptions to the Wednesday Schedule
The schedule above applies to most retirees. However, there are a few important exceptions.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI):
SSI payments are made on the 1st of each month. If the 1st falls on a weekend or federal holiday, the payment is issued on the preceding business day. For example, the September 2025 SSI payment will be made on Friday, August 29, 2025, because September 1st is Labor Day.
Dual Beneficiaries (SSI & Social Security):
If you receive both Social Security and SSI, your SSI is paid on the 1st and your Social Security is paid on the 3rd of each month.
Started Benefits Before May 1997:
If you began receiving benefits before May 1997, you are also paid on the 3rd of the month.
What The Experts Say About When You Will Receive Your Social Security Check
“If you were born on the 11th through the 20th of the month, you’ll be paid on the third Wednesday of the month. If you were born after the 20th of the month, you’ll be paid on the fourth Wednesday of the month.” – Social Security Administration
“Your Social Security payment will be sent out on one of three Wednesdays. Find out when you’ll receive your Social Security benefit in 2025.” – RetireGuide
“Social Security is paid on the 3rd and SSI on the 1st. If you don’t receive your payment on the expected date, please allow three additional mailing days before contacting Social Security.” – Social Security Administration
Related Reading You Might Enjoy
Social Security Payments Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why did my Social Security payment arrive early?
If your scheduled social security payment date falls on a weekend or a federal holiday, the SSA will issue the payment on the preceding business day. This is why some payments arrive a day or two before you expect them.
What should I do if my Social Security payment is late?
First, wait three additional mailing days before contacting the SSA, as there can be banking delays. If it still hasn’t arrived, you can call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 or contact your local SSA office. If you’re struggling with a late direct deposit, our guide Why Is My Direct Deposit Late? can help.
How do I switch from a Social Security paper check to electronic payments?
You have two main options to comply with the new rules:
Direct Deposit: You can set this up by contacting the SSA or through your my Social Security online account. You will need your bank’s routing number and your account number.
Direct Express® Debit MasterCard®: This is a prepaid debit card offered by the Treasury Department. Your benefits are loaded onto the card each month. You can sign up by calling 1-800-333-1795.
Now, try searching for: what is a good monthly retirement income, spousal benefits, or how to plan for retirement.
Final Word: Take Control of Your Payments from Social Security
Knowing your Social Security payment schedule is a simple but powerful part of a sound retirement planning strategy. Bookmark this page and refer to it throughout the year to stay on top of your budget. Most importantly, if you are still receiving paper checks, take action now to switch to an electronic method to ensure your payments continue without interruption.
- Sharing the article with your friends on social media – and like and follow us there as well.
- Sign up for the FREE personal finance newsletter, and never miss anything again.
- Take a look around the site for other articles that you may enjoy.
Note: The content provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as financial or legal advice. Consult with a professional advisor or accountant for personalized guidance.
