The Social Security program in the United States covers several types of beneficiaries. Retired workers are those who have accumulated the required credits during their working life. They generally need 40 quarters or 10 years of contributing employment. They must also reach retirement age, which is typically between 62 and 67.
People with disabilities fall into two main categories. Those with disabilities who have worked and contributed receive SSDI. Non-working disabled people with very low incomes and a confirmed disability qualify for SSI. Both groups are eligible for medically determined disability benefits (SSDI).
Other Social Security groups thatclaim benefits
Survivors and family members are also eligible beneficiaries. This category includes spouses or former spouses married for more than 10 years. It also includes minor or disabled children of the employed person. In some specific cases, surviving parents may receive financial support.
The SSI program serves people 65 or older, who are blind, or who have disabilities. They must have very limited income and financial resources. This supplemental financial support operates under strict eligibility parameters. It does not depend on previous employment history but rather on current financial need.
To qualify for SSI, applicants must meet three key conditions. First, they must have a defined condition: advanced age, blindness, or disability. Second, they must demonstrate income below approximately $2,000 per month. Third, they must have resources less than $2,000 for individuals or $3,000 for couples.
Citizenship or qualified immigration status is another essential requirement. According to official data, nearly 74 million Americans receive benefits. This figure includes approximately 52 million retirees. It also covers between 7 and 8 million people with recognized disabilities.
Payment dates: second, third, and fourth Wednesdays of July 2025
Retirement, disability, or survivor benefits follow specific schedules. RIB/SSDI beneficiaries who applied after May 1, 1997, have variable dates. The timing depends on the beneficiary’s birthday. There are three key dates during the month of July 2025.
Those born between July 1 and 10 will receive payments on July 9, the second Wednesday of the month. Those whose birthdays are between July 11 and 20 will receive their payments on July 16, the third Wednesday. Those born between July 21 and 31 will receive their funds on July 23, the fourth Wednesday.
Beneficiaries who began receiving benefits during or before May 1997 have a fixed payment date. They received their monthly payment on July 3rd, without exception. This same date applies to those who simultaneously receive SSI. SSI-only recipients always receive their payment on the first business day: July 1st.
Maximum retirement amounts: up to $5,108 per month
The maximum monthly Social Security benefit in 2025 is $5,108. This amount requires meeting specific eligibility conditions. First, you must have worked and contributed for at least 35 full years. Second, you must delay applying until you reach the maximum benefit age (70).
A late application triggers additional late payment increases. These increases are equivalent to approximately 8% per year over the base benefit. They are calculated based on the beneficiary’s Primary Insurance Amount (PIA). Most retirees receive amounts lower than the maximum possible.
Requirements for the maximum amount
Those seeking the maximum amount need 35 years of contributions with high earnings. They must reach age 70 before claiming the benefit. This way, they can take advantage of the accumulated 8% annual increase between ages 67 and 70. Their PIA must meet the required level.
The Primary Insurance Amount (PIA) is calculated based on the 35 years of highest income adjusted for inflation. Only those who earned maximum wages for decades qualify. The current average retirement pension is around $2,000 per month, well below the cap. The Social Security Administration reviews each case individually.
