Managing your monthly budget becomes much easier when you know exactly when money is coming in. For over 70 million Americans, Social Security benefits are a lifeline.
Whether you depend on retirement checks, disability benefits, or SSI (Supplemental Security Income), knowing your payment dates helps you stay financially prepared.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) follows a structured schedule, but in September 2025, a federal holiday changes things slightly. Here’s a simple breakdown.
A Late-August Payday Before September
Before jumping into September, remember one important August date. On Wednesday, August 27, 2025, the SSA will send payments to people whose birthdays fall between the 21st and 31st of any month. This applies if you started receiving benefits after May 1997.
But here’s the key update: since September 1, 2025, is Labor Day, SSI recipients will get their September payment early—on Friday, August 29, 2025. This means:
SSI will be paid twice in August (1st and 29th).
No SSI payment will be issued in September.
If you rely on SSI, be sure to plan your budget carefully since you won’t receive money in September.
September 2025 Social Security Payment Schedule
For regular Social Security beneficiaries (retirement, survivors, disability), the schedule remains the same and follows birthdays. Payments will be sent on these dates:
Wednesday, September 3: For anyone who started benefits before May 1997, and for those receiving both Social Security and SSI.
Wednesday, September 10: For birthdays between the 1st and 10th.
Wednesday, September 17: For birthdays between the 11th and 20th.
Wednesday, September 24: For birthdays between the 21st and 31st.
Tip: Always allow up to three business days for payments to appear before reporting them as missing.
A Small Boost in 2025: COLA Increase
In 2025, benefits rose slightly due to a 2.5% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA). This helps payments keep pace with inflation. Here are the updated figures:
Social Security Retirement: Maximum benefit at full retirement age – $3,822 per month; if delayed until age 70 – up to $5,108.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Maximum monthly benefit – $967 for an individual, $1,450 for a couple.
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): Average benefit – about $1,620; maximum for individuals who are blind – around $2,700.
To check your exact amount, log in to your secure my Social Security account. It provides up-to-date details about your payments and benefit history.
September’s Social Security schedule is mostly routine, but SSI recipients must pay attention to the early payment shift. With two payments in August and none in September, smart budgeting is key to avoiding financial stress.
For retirees and disability beneficiaries, regular Wednesday payments continue as usual. And with a small COLA increase, your monthly check should stretch a little further in 2025. Always check your my Social Security account to stay updated and make financial planning easier.
