Millions of Americans are set to receive their Social Security payments in the final round of February 2025. For those eagerly awaiting their checks, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will send out payments on Wednesday, February 26, but only to certain recipients.
Who Will Get Paid on February 26?
The SSA follows a strict schedule based on the recipient’s birth date. This helps distribute payments efficiently throughout the month. If your birthday falls between the 21st and 31st of any month, your Social Security check will arrive on February 26.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the SSA’s payment schedule:
- Birthdays on the 1st–10th → Paid on the second Wednesday (February 12)
- Birthdays on the 11th–20th → Paid on the third Wednesday (February 19)
- Birthdays on the 21st–31st → Paid on the fourth Wednesday (February 26)
However, if you started receiving Social Security before May 1997, or if you get both Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI), your payments follow a different schedule. In that case, your Social Security benefits usually arrive on the 3rd of each month, while SSI payments are sent on the 1st of each month. If those dates fall on a weekend or holiday, the SSA will adjust the payment date accordingly.
How Much Will You Get?
The amount you receive depends on when you started claiming benefits and your earnings history. Thanks to the 2.5% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) for 2025, Social Security benefits are slightly higher this year.
Here’s how much you could get based on when you retired:
- Retired at 62 → Up to $2,831 per month
- Retired at 67 (Full Retirement Age) → Up to $4,018 per month
- Delayed Retirement Until 70 → Up to $5,108 per month
If you want the highest possible monthly payment, waiting until age 70 to claim Social Security could be worth considering.
What About SSI Payments?
SSI recipients will not receive a payment on February 26 because their payments are sent on the 1st of each month. However, because March 1st falls on a Saturday, the March SSI payment will actually be sent out early on Friday, February 28.
How to Make Sure You Get Paid on Time
To avoid delays, here are a few steps you can take:
Sign Up for Direct Deposit – This ensures your benefits go straight to your bank account on the correct date.
Keep Your Info Updated – If you move or change bank accounts, update your details with the SSA to prevent payment issues.
Wait Three Mailing Days Before Reporting a Missing Payment – If your payment doesn’t arrive as expected, give it a few extra days before contacting Social Security.
Final Thoughts
The SSA’s structured payment system ensures that millions of Americans receive their benefits smoothly. If your birthday falls between the 21st and 31st, expect your Social Security check on February 26. And if you’re an SSI recipient, your next payment will come on February 28 instead of March 1.
Want to double-check your payment details? Visit SSA.gov for more information.
