In May 2025, millions of Americans receiving Social Security or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits will get their monthly payments, and the schedule has already started on May 1, 2025. For certain lucky recipients, the month will include up to three deposits due to schedule adjustments.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) distributes benefits according to specific dates. Social Security payments are based on the beneficiary’s date of birth, while SSI payments are made on the first day of the month. In May 2025, the calendar presents particularities that affect those who receive both programs.
Why do some beneficiaries receive three Social Security payments in May?
As we have talked about in other articles, the Social Security calendar is based, mostly, on the date of birth of the beneficiary or surviving family member. The first round of SSI payments were paid on May 1, while benefits were paid on May 2, a Friday, to those who began receiving them before May 1997.
Those born between the 1st and the 10th will receive their payment on May 14, a Wednesday. Those born between the 11th and the 20th will get their Social Security payment on May 21, also a Wednesday. For those born between the 21st and the 31st, payment will be made on May 28, another Wednesday.
For those receiving SSI and Social Security, May 2025 brings three payments: May SSI on May 1, May Social Security on May 2 (or one of the Wednesday payments), and June SSI on May 30. That said, there will be no SSI payment in the month of June and the next deposit is set to be paid on July 1.
Who qualifies for SSI + Social Security together?
SSI is designed for people who meet certain age, disability, or blindness criteria. Recipients must be over 65 years old, blind, or have a qualifying disability according to SSA standards. Children under age 18 with disabilities may also be eligible if their condition significantly limits their daily activities.
Blindness, for purposes of SSI, is defined as visual acuity of 20/200 or less in the better eye with correction, or a visual field limited to 20 degrees or less. Disability in adults involves a medical condition that prevents substantial work activity and is expected to last at least one year or result in death.
Individuals who qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security (SSDI, retirement or survivor benefits) can receive both payments if their Social Security benefit is low, and they meet SSI income and resource limits. This is known as “concurrent benefits.”
More factors that you must know about SSI and Social Security
SSI is a needs-based program for people who are disabled, blind, or over age 65 with limited income and resources. In 2025, the limits are about $2,019 per month, while for couples it’s about $3,028, according to SSA guidelines.
Social Security (SSDI, retirement) requires work credits accumulated through employment. If the benefit amount is less than the federal SSI standard, SSI supplements the difference, as long as the applicant does not exceed the income limits.
Resources, defined as liquid assets or property that can be converted into cash, also determine eligibility. Resources which can be cash, funded bank accounts, stocks, bonds and non-essential property. The SSA excludes certain assets, such as the primary residence, a vehicle used for transportation, household furniture, and up to $1,500 in burial funds per person.
The SSA evaluates resources at the beginning of each month. If an applicant exceeds the limits, they can legitimately spend or transfer resources to meet the requirements, but fraudulent transfers may result in temporary ineligibility.
Applications for SSI can be submitted online through the SSA website, by visiting a local SSA office, or by calling 1-800-772-1213. Applicants must provide detailed documentation, including medical records, proof of income, and resource statements.
The evaluation process can take several months. The SSA reviews medical conditions to confirm disability or blindness and verifies income and resources. Applicants may appeal unfavorable decisions through a reconsideration or hearing process.