The fourth Wednesday in March 2025, which is March 26, is the day Social Security payments are scheduled to be distributed to beneficiaries born between the 21st and 31st of each month. This system, established by the Social Security Administration (SSA), divides disbursements into three monthly dates based on the day of birth.
According to projections, between 18 and 20 million people – approximately a third of the 67 million total beneficiaries – will receive their payment on this last date of the month. Some can receive above $5,000 per month, but it is a number that only a select group can reach.
The confirmed maximum amount for 2025 is $5,108 per month, aimed at workers with 35 years of maximum contributions, and who delayed their retirement until they were 70 years of age. It’s a number that was increased by the 2.5% cost of living adjustment that takes effect in 2025. The average benefit is $1,907, a more realistic number for most retirees.
Who receives their Social Security payments this Wednesday?
Social Security payments represent an economic cornerstone for millions of Americans, especially retirees and people with disabilities. In 2025, it is estimated that 70% of the beneficiaries will be retirees, reflecting the progressive aging of the population.
For survivors, these funds are really important (critical, for some) in covering basic expenses. An example is widows over 60 years of age, who represent a significant portion of this group. The SSA emphasizes that individual amounts depend on factors such as years of contributions and average salary.
If your retirement payment is not enough, you have options to make ends meet
If your Social Security payment doesn’t cover your needs, there are several options you can explore. First, you might consider looking for part-time work or additional sources of income, whenever possible.
You can also investigate government assistance programs, such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) for food assistance or low-cost housing programs: SNAP is available throughout the US and affordable housing programs vary from state to state.
Another option is to move to a place with a lower cost of living or seek support from local charities.
If your total income, including your Social Security payment, is very low, you may qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), a federal program for people with limited income and resources who are over 65, blind, or disabled.
To apply for SSI, you can:
- Visit the official SSA website at this link and complete the application online.
- Call the SSA number at 1-800-772-1213 to schedule a phone or in-person appointment.
- Visit a local SSA office by appointment, bringing with you documents such as identification, income information, resource details (such as bank accounts), and proof of age, blindness or disability, if applicable.
During the process, the SSA will evaluate your eligibility based on your income, resources, and status. It is important to report any changes in your situation, such as additional income or changes in your housing, as they may affect your benefit.
Among the basic requirements are the requirement of citizenship or eligible legal immigration status, living in the 50 states in the District of Columbia, or in the Northern Mariana Islands, not being confined in an institution at government expense (such as a hospital or prison), being over 65 years old, or being blind or disabled according to SSA definitions.
Resources (such as money in the bank or vehicles) must not exceed certain limits, which in 2025 are $2,000 for individuals and $3,000 for couples, although some resources, such as your primary home, do not count. SSI can provide up to $967 for an eligible individual and $1,450 for a cohabiting couple.
