Millions of Social Security recipients are set to receive their payments this March, but there are some important updates to be aware of. From adjusted payment dates to benefit increases, here’s what you should know to ensure you get your money on time.
When Will You Get Paid?
Social Security payments follow a set schedule each month, based on the beneficiary’s birth date. Here’s how it works for March 2025:
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Recipients: Usually paid on the 1st of the month, but since March 1 falls on a Saturday this year, SSI payments were sent out a day early, on February 28.
- Social Security Retirement, Disability, and Survivor Benefits:
- If your birthday falls between the 1st and 10th, you’ll get paid on March 12 (second Wednesday).
- If your birthday falls between the 11th and 20th, you’ll receive your payment on March 19 (third Wednesday).
- If your birthday falls between the 21st and 31st, your payment arrives on March 26 (fourth Wednesday).
Bigger Checks Thanks to a COLA Increase
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has increased benefits in 2025 thanks to a 2.5% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA). This means:
- The average retiree benefit has gone up to $1,976 per month (an increase from $1,927).
- The maximum taxable earnings for Social Security contributions have been raised to $176,100.
- SSI benefits have also increased:
- Individuals now receive $967 per month (up from $943).
- Married couples get $1,450 per month (up from $1,415).
This increase is meant to help retirees, disabled workers, and other beneficiaries keep up with inflation.
Major Policy Change: No More WEP and GPO Deductions!
A new law, the Social Security Fairness Act, took effect in January 2025, bringing a major win for retirees. The law eliminates the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO)—two policies that previously reduced Social Security benefits for public sector workers.
- WEP (Windfall Elimination Provision): Previously reduced Social Security payments for people who worked in jobs not covered by Social Security (like some state and local government roles). With this repeal, thousands of retirees will now receive their full benefits.
- GPO (Government Pension Offset): Previously reduced spousal or survivor benefits for those receiving government pensions. With its repeal, these beneficiaries will now receive their full spousal and survivor benefits without any deductions.
Retroactive Payments Are Coming
To make up for past deductions due to WEP and GPO, the SSA has announced one-time retroactive payments. These will cover the period from January 2024 to March 2025, ensuring that affected retirees get back the money they should have received.
- The retroactive payments are expected to be sent by the end of March 2025.
- Starting in April 2025, those affected by WEP and GPO will see permanently higher monthly Social Security checks.
What Should You Do Next?
To make sure you receive your Social Security benefits without any issues:
- Check Your Payment Date – Make sure you know when your deposit is scheduled to arrive.
- Update Your Banking Information – If you’ve recently changed accounts, ensure the SSA has your correct direct deposit details.
- Watch for Retroactive Payments – If you were affected by WEP or GPO, keep an eye on your account for a lump sum payment before the end of March.
- Look Out for SSA Notices – The Social Security Administration may send updates about your payments. Read them carefully.
Final Thoughts
With larger checks, updated payment schedules, and major policy changes, March 2025 brings important updates for Social Security beneficiaries. If you receive Social Security or SSI, make sure to stay informed and check your accounts regularly. This could be the month you see a big boost in your benefits!
