For millions of Americans, the second Wednesday in July marks the start of monthly Social Security benefit distributions. The Social Security Administration (SSA) adheres to a strict schedule for paying retirement benefits, based on beneficiaries’ birthdates, which applies to individuals who began receiving retirement payments after May 1997.
In this article, we’ll discuss the July 2025 payment dates, the impact of the cost of living increase, and a critical change regarding paper checks that beneficiaries need to be aware of.
The 2025 Social Security Payment Dates for July
The SSA follows a structured payment system for retirement benefits. Payments are distributed on the second, third, and fourth Wednesdays of each month, and this schedule is based on the recipient’s birthdate. Here are the confirmed payment dates for July 2025:
Wednesday, July 9: For individuals born between the 1st and 10th of any month.
Wednesday, July 16: For those born between the 11th and 20th of any month.
Wednesday, July 23: For recipients born between the 21st and 31st.
If a Wednesday falls on a holiday, payments are moved to the previous Tuesday, ensuring timely distribution.
It’s important to note that Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients or individuals whose benefits began before May 1997 have different schedules. SSI payments are distributed on the 1st of every month, and retirement payments for those before May 1997 are sent on the 3rd. The holiday and weekend advance rule also applies in these cases.
The Impact of the Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) in 2025
In January 2025, retirees will see a 2.5% COLA increase in their benefits, which will remain in effect until December 2025. This increase adjusts Social Security benefits to reflect inflation and helps beneficiaries maintain their purchasing power.
The average benefit for retirees in 2025 is $1,976 per month, up from $1,927 in 2024.
In May 2025, the average benefit reached $2,002.39, the first time it exceeded $2,000, but it has since declined slightly.
The maximum possible benefit for someone retiring at age 67 (the Full Retirement Age in 2025) is $4,018 per month, while those who wait until age 70 could receive a maximum benefit of $5,108. For those also receiving SSI, the maximum monthly benefit is $967 for an individual and $1,450 for a couple.
Say Goodbye to Paper Checks: Act Now to Avoid Payment Disruption
In a significant change that will impact millions of Social Security recipients, the SSA will completely phase out paper checks starting in October 2025. This policy, initially announced in 2013, aims to modernize the payment system, reduce fraud, and improve efficiency.
While electronic payments have been the preferred method for years, some beneficiaries continued receiving paper checks due to exemptions or lack of updates to their information.
Starting in October, physical checks will no longer be issued, and recipients who have not switched to electronic payments could face serious consequences, such as delayed payments or even a temporary suspension of their benefits.
To avoid disruptions, those still receiving paper checks must act now and update their payment preferences.
Steps to Transition to Electronic Payments
If you’re still receiving paper checks, here are the steps to ensure you continue receiving your Social Security benefits smoothly:
- Sign up for direct deposit: This is the fastest and most secure payment method. You can sign up online at www.ssa.gov or by calling 1-800-772-1213. You will need your bank’s routing and account numbers.
- Opt for a Direct Express card: If you don’t have a bank account, apply for a Direct Express card, which works like a debit card and is automatically reloaded each month. You can apply for it online or by phone.
- Check your banking information: Even if you already use electronic payments, verify that your banking information is up-to-date, especially if there have been any recent changes.
- Request help if needed: If you have a disability or face difficulties making the transition, contact the SSA for assistance or to explore exemption options.
- Inform family or caregivers: Many older adults rely on caregivers for support. Ensure that the people who help you are aware of this change and assist you with the necessary updates.
The SSA’s decision to phase out paper checks aims to reduce theft, loss, fraud, and administrative costs related to physical checks. This transition is mandatory, and no further exemptions will be granted.
For Social Security beneficiaries, July 2025 will follow the usual payment schedule based on birthdates, with an added benefit of a 2.5% COLA increase. However, the biggest change on the horizon is the end of paper checks in October 2025.
To avoid any interruptions in your Social Security payments, it is essential to transition to an electronic payment method before the deadline. Taking these steps now will ensure that you continue to receive your benefits smoothly and securely in the years to come.
