Why Some Social Security Recipients Are Getting Two Payments in May—Are You One of Them?
Social Security Recipients: Some Social Security recipients are getting two payments in May 2025 due to a scheduling quirk in the federal payment calendar. This isn’t a bonus or extra cash from the government. Instead, it’s a timing adjustment made by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to ensure beneficiaries receive their payments on time when regular payment dates fall on weekends or federal holidays. If you’re wondering whether you’re eligible for two checks this month, read on. We’ll explain the details, who is affected, and how you can plan ahead.

Social Security Recipients
Key Info | Details |
---|---|
Why Two Payments? | June 1 falls on a Sunday, so June’s SSI payment is issued early, on May 30. |
Who Gets Two Payments? | SSI recipients and certain early Social Security recipients who also get SSI. |
Payment Dates | May 1 (May SSI), May 30 (June SSI), possibly May 3 (SSA for some). |
Number Affected | Approx. 7.4 million SSI recipients. |
Official Source | Social Security Administration |
If you receive SSI benefits, you might see two deposits in May 2025, thanks to a standard scheduling adjustment by the Social Security Administration. It’s not a windfall — just your June payment coming early. Understanding this system helps you plan your finances better and avoid confusion. Stay informed, check your statements, and always verify with official SSA resources.
What Is Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal assistance program designed to help older adults and individuals with disabilities who have limited income and resources. In 2025, over 7.4 million Americans receive SSI benefits. Payments are usually made on the 1st of each month. However, if that date falls on a weekend or holiday, the SSA issues payments on the preceding business day.
Why Are There Two Payments in May 2025?
Here’s how it works in May 2025:
- May 1: Standard SSI payment for May.
- May 30: Early payment for June, since June 1 is a Sunday.
Real-Life Example
Imagine Jane, a 70-year-old retiree living on SSI. She typically gets her payment on the 1st of each month. In May, she’ll receive her regular payment on May 1, and then get another deposit on May 30 — which actually covers her June payment.
Important: Jane will not receive an SSI deposit in June, since it was paid early.
Who Will Get Two (or Three) Payments?
This adjustment affects three groups:
1. Regular SSI Recipients
These individuals will receive:
- May 1: May payment
- May 30: June payment (early)
2. SSI + Social Security Recipients (Pre-May 1997)
Some people receive both SSI and Social Security and began collecting benefits before May 1997. These recipients may get three payments in May:
- May 1: SSI for May
- May 3: Social Security benefit
- May 30: SSI for June
3. SSI-Only or SSA-Only Beneficiaries
If you receive only one type of benefit, the timing will depend on your birthdate (for SSA) or the SSI schedule.
Upcoming Months with Double SSI Payments
If you receive SSI, here are other months in 2025 with early payments due to weekends or holidays:
Month | Early Payment Date | Covers Month |
August | August 30 | September |
October | October 31 | November |
December | December 31 | January 2026 |
Mark your calendars! These adjustments repeat throughout the year to ensure timely delivery. |
What You Need To Do
Nothing. The SSA automatically schedules and issues these early payments. However, there are a few practical steps you can take:
Budget Wisely
Remember: You’re not getting extra money. You’re just receiving next month’s payment early. It’s important to stretch your funds over a longer period until the next deposit arrives.
Check Your Bank Account
Payments are usually sent via direct deposit or loaded onto a Direct Express debit card.
Monitor the Official Payment Calendar
Stay up-to-date by visiting the SSA’s official Payment Schedule Page.
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FAQs About Social Security Recipients
Is this a bonus payment?
No. The second payment in May is the June SSI payment issued early. You will not receive a payment in June.
Do I need to contact SSA to receive both payments?
No. If you’re eligible, payments are made automatically.
Why does this happen?
The SSA avoids sending payments on weekends or federal holidays. If the 1st falls on such a day, the payment is issued the previous business day.
Will this affect my eligibility or benefit amount?
No. Your eligibility and monthly amount remain unchanged.
Where can I get more information?
Visit the Social Security Administration website or call 1-800-772-1213.