Three Remaining Social Security Payouts in 2025: Do You Qualify for Social Security Benefits?

With 2025 flying by, it’s time to check in on your Social Security benefits. Did you know there are still three major payment dates left this year? If you’re relying on these payments—or thinking about applying—you’ll want to be sure you’re getting every penny you’re entitled to. Let’s break down the upcoming payment dates, how to check your eligibility, and what to do if you haven’t applied yet.

When Will You Get Your Social Security Payments?

The Social Security Administration sends payments on a set schedule based on your birth date. Here’s how it works:

• If your birthday falls between the 1st and the 10th: You’ll get paid on the second Wednesday of each month.
• If your birthday falls between the 11th and the 20th: Your payment will arrive on the third Wednesday of the month.
• If your birthday falls between the 21st and the 31st: You’ll receive your payment on the fourth Wednesday of the month.

So, if your birthday is on January 9th, you’ll see your payment on the second Wednesday of the month. If it’s January 19th, you’ll get paid on the third Wednesday. The system is simple, but knowing your payment date can help you plan your budget and avoid any surprises.

Here Are the Remaining 2025 Payment Dates to Watch For:

• November Payments: November 13th, 20th, and 27th
• December Payments: December 11th, 18th, and 25th

Make sure these dates are on your calendar so you’re not caught off guard!

Am I Eligible for Social Security Benefits?

If you’re wondering whether you qualify or are thinking about applying, here’s what you need to know:

1. You must be at least 62 years old to start claiming retirement benefits.
   • However, keep in mind that if you apply at 62, your monthly payment will be reduced. Waiting until your Full Retirement Age (FRA) (usually between 66 and 67) will get you your full benefit amount.
2. You need at least 40 work credits, which typically means about 10 years of work where you’ve paid Social Security taxes.
3. You must be a U.S. citizen or a lawfully present non-citizen.

How to Check Your Social Security Benefits

It’s easy to check your benefits and ensure you’re on track to receive everything you’re owed. Here’s how:

1. Set up a ‘my Social Security’ account: Head over to the Social Security Administration’s website at ssa.gov and create an online account. This will give you access to your earnings record, estimated benefit amounts, and other important details.
2. Verify your earnings record: Mistakes happen, so it’s important to check that all your work years and earnings have been recorded correctly. Any gaps or errors could lower your monthly benefit.
3. Use the benefit calculators: The SSA’s website has tools that let you estimate your monthly benefit based on different scenarios, like retiring early or delaying benefits until age 70.

Ready to Apply? Here’s How to Do It

When you’re ready to start collecting your Social Security benefits, applying is easy:

• Online Application: The fastest way is through the SSA’s online portal. It only takes about 15 minutes to complete.
• Phone or In-Person Application: You can also apply by calling the SSA or visiting your local Social Security office.

Once approved, your payments will be deposited directly into your bank account or loaded onto a prepaid debit card—whichever option you choose.

What to Do If You Don’t Receive Your Payment

If your payment doesn’t show up when you expect it, here’s what you can do:

1. Double-check the payment schedule: Make sure you’re looking at the right Wednesday for your birth date.
2. Check your bank information: If you’re getting direct deposit, verify that your bank details are correct.
3. Contact the SSA: If your payment is late by more than a day, call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 to see if there’s an issue.

How to Maximize Your Social Security Benefits

Want to get the most out of your Social Security checks? Here are some tips:

• Work for at least 35 years: Social Security calculates your benefits based on your 35 highest-earning years. If you have fewer than 35 years of work, the missing years will be counted as zeros, lowering your average.
• Delay benefits if you can: While you can start collecting benefits at 62, waiting until age 70 will increase your monthly payout by as much as 32%.
• Stay updated on annual COLA increases: The Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) helps your benefits keep pace with inflation. In 2025, the COLA is 2.5%, meaning you’ll see a boost in your monthly payments.