Millions of Americans are set to receive their Social Security payments today, January 22, 2025, marking the final wave of distributions for this month. This payment cycle includes those whose birthdays fall between the 21st and 31st of their birth month. Here’s what you need to know about the January payout schedule, new benefit amounts, and what’s ahead in February.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) organizes its monthly payments into three groups. Earlier this month, payments were sent to recipients with birthdays between the 1st and 10th on January 8, while those born between the 11th and 20th were paid on January 15. Today’s final wave completes January’s schedule for the third group of beneficiaries.
Bigger Checks This Year
If your payment looks slightly larger than last year, it’s because of the SSA’s annual cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). In 2025, benefits rose by 2.5% to help retirees and beneficiaries cope with inflation. This year, the maximum monthly benefit is $5,108 for those who delay retirement until age 70. Retirees who begin collecting at the full retirement age of 67 can receive up to $4,018 per month, while those who start at 62 may get up to $2,831.
When to Expect Your Money
For those receiving benefits via direct deposit, the funds should appear in bank accounts by the end of the day. Paper checks, meanwhile, may take a few extra days to arrive depending on the postal service. If you don’t receive your payment as expected, the SSA advises contacting their office at 1-800-772-1213 to resolve any issues.
Other Payments to Note
It’s worth noting that Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments operate on a separate schedule. SSI recipients received their January payments early, on December 31, 2024, because New Year’s Day is a federal holiday.
What’s Coming in February?
Looking ahead, February’s Social Security payments will begin on February 12 for those born between the 1st and 10th. The remaining groups will receive their payments on February 19 and February 26, based on their birthdates. Be sure to check your payment date and plan your budget accordingly.
The Social Security program continues to support over 70 million Americans, ensuring timely benefits for retirees, individuals with disabilities, and survivors.
