SSDI Payments Delayed? Here’s When Your May Check Is Actually Coming

If you’re someone who counts on Social Security Disability (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you probably know how important it is to keep up with payment dates. And when a check doesn’t show up when you expect it — yeah, it’s stressful.

So let’s walk through what’s happening this month, what’s already been paid, and when you can expect your next deposit.

First Things First: Why Didn’t You Get Paid This Week?

Here’s the deal — if you didn’t see any SSDI money hit your account this week, that doesn’t necessarily mean something’s wrong. SSDI payments are scheduled based on your birthday, and not everyone gets paid at the same time.

Here’s how May 2025 is set up:

• If your birthday is between the 1st and 10th, your payment is coming Wednesday, May 14

• If you were born between the 11th and 20th, look for it on Wednesday, May 21

• And if your birthday falls between the 21st and 31st, your check’s landing on Wednesday, May 28

So if you’re still waiting, chances are your date just hasn’t come up yet.

Got Paid on May 2? You’re in a Different Group

Now, if you did get a payment earlier — on May 2, specifically — you’re likely someone who:

• Started receiving SSDI before May 1997, or

• Gets both SSDI and SSI

This group gets paid earlier in the month, no matter when their birthday is. In May, that date was Friday the 2nd. So if that’s you — nothing unusual, you’re just on a different schedule.

How About SSI Payments?

SSI is simpler — kind of. Usually, it gets paid on the 1st of every month. For May, that was Wednesday, May 1.

But here’s a little twist: because June 1 falls on a Sunday, your June SSI check will arrive early — on May 30. So yes, you’ll get two SSI payments in May, but that second one is actually meant for June. It trips people up all the time.

What If Your Payment Is Late?

If you were supposed to get a payment and it still hasn’t shown up, here’s what the Social Security Administration recommends:

• Wait at least three extra mailing days — sometimes it’s just a delay.

• If nothing’s there after that, call them at 1-800-772-1213 or log into your my Social Security account at ssa.gov to check the status.

And just to be real with you — yes, delays have been more common lately. The SSA has admitted they’re dealing with some staffing shortages and old systems that are slowing things down. They’re working on it, but it’s a good idea to stay on top of your own schedule.

Whether your payment’s already come through or you’re still waiting, knowing your exact date can make planning your month a whole lot easier. And if something feels off — trust your gut and reach out.

If you want, I can also help you set up or check your online Social Security account so you don’t have to keep guessing. Want to go over that together?