For millions of Americans who rely on benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA), the month of May 2025 brings a welcome surprise: the possibility of receiving two or even three payments, depending on the type of benefits they qualify for. This rare situation arises from a timing quirk in the SSA’s calendar, and it affects both Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients and those who also collect traditional Social Security benefits.
Double SSI Payments in May Due to Calendar Shift
SSI recipients will see two payments hit their bank accounts in May—one on Thursday, May 1, and another on Friday, May 30. The early disbursement of the June SSI payment happens because June 1 falls on a weekend, and the SSA does not issue payments on weekends or holidays.
This means beneficiaries will not receive any SSI payment in June itself. The same pattern occurred earlier in the year in March, and will repeat again in August and October, with no SSI checks sent in September and November.
Why Some Recipients Will Get Three Payments
About one-third of SSI recipients also receive regular Social Security benefits. These individuals will receive three separate payments in May—two from SSI and one from Social Security. For those depending on fixed incomes, this could be an important, though temporary, financial relief.
When Regular Social Security Payments Are Sent
Traditional Social Security benefits—commonly received by retirees, widows, and individuals with disabilities—are distributed on Wednesdays throughout the month. The exact date depends on the recipient’s birthdate:
- May 14: Birthdates between the 1st and 10th
- May 21: Birthdates between the 11th and 20th
- May 28: Birthdates after the 20th
Those who began receiving Social Security before May 1997 are paid on the 3rd of the month, regardless of their birthday. If they also receive SSI, their SSI payment will arrive on the 1st.
What This Means for Beneficiaries
While this schedule shift doesn’t increase the total amount a beneficiary receives in a year, it does affect monthly budgeting and planning. Those who receive early SSI payments must be cautious not to spend their June benefits in May, as there will be no payment issued in June.
Looking Ahead
This SSA payment cycle will repeat in other months of 2025. Specifically, August will include two SSI checks—on August 1 and August 29—but no check in September. Likewise, October will bring another double SSI payment, followed by a skipped check in November.
Understanding these timing changes is essential for beneficiaries to avoid confusion and manage their finances effectively.
