As we step into July 2025, millions of Americans are expecting their Social Security retirement payments. This year, Social Security beneficiaries will receive their payments on a regular schedule, based on their birth dates. But with upcoming changes, including the complete phase-out of paper checks, it’s important to be aware of when you’ll get paid and what actions you need to take.
Social Security Payment Schedule for July 2025
For individuals who began receiving retirement benefits after May 1997, the Social Security Administration (SSA) follows a strict payment schedule, with payments made on the second, third, and fourth Wednesdays of each month.
Here are the confirmed payment dates for July 2025:
- Wednesday, July 9: Payments for those born between the 1st and 10th of any month.
- Wednesday, July 16: Payments for those born between the 11th and 20th of any month.
- Wednesday, July 23: Payments for those born between the 21st and 31st of any month.
If one of these Wednesdays happens to fall on a holiday, payments will be advanced to the previous Tuesday, which is the closest business day.
Note that Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients, or those whose retirement benefits began before May 1997, follow a different schedule. SSI payments are made on the 1st of each month, while retirement payments are sent on the 3rd of each month. The same holiday advance rule applies here.
How the Cost of Living Affects Social Security Payments in 2025
Social Security payments are adjusted yearly based on the Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA), and 2025 brings a 2.5% COLA increase. This increase, effective from January 2025, will help seniors keep up with rising prices.
The average benefit for retirees is approximately $1,976 per month as of 2025, up from $1,927 in 2024. For the first time, the average benefit exceeded $2,000 in May 2025, reaching $2,002.39.
The maximum possible payment for Social Security beneficiaries is $4,018 per month for those who retire at age 67 (Full Retirement Age). If you wait until age 70, the maximum monthly payment could rise to $5,108.
For those receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI), the maximum for an individual is $967, and for a couple, it is $1,450.
Say Goodbye to Paper Checks: Act Now Before October 2025
One of the biggest changes affecting Social Security beneficiaries in 2025 is the end of paper checks. Starting October 1, 2025, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will no longer issue paper checks for any federal benefits, including Social Security retirement payments.
This change, which has been planned since 2013, is now mandatory. The goal is to modernize the payment system, reduce fraud, and save costs. Although electronic payments have been required for years, some beneficiaries have still been receiving physical checks either due to exemptions or failure to update their payment information. However, as of October 2025, paper checks will be completely eliminated.
What Happens If You Don’t Act?
If you’re still receiving paper checks, you must switch to an electronic payment method before September 30, 2025. If you don’t, you risk missing your payments or having them delayed. Here’s what you need to do to ensure you continue receiving your benefits on time:
Sign Up for Direct Deposit
This is the fastest and safest method. To set it up, visit www.ssa.gov or call 1-800-772-1213. You’ll need your bank account number and routing number.
Opt for a Direct Express Card
If you don’t have a bank account, apply for the Direct Express card, a government-issued debit card that gets automatically reloaded each month. You can apply for it online or over the phone.
Double-Check Your Payment Information
Even if you already use direct deposit, confirm that your banking details are up to date. If you’ve recently changed banks or accounts, make sure your information is correct.
Get Help If You Have a Disability
If you have a disability that makes it difficult to switch to electronic payments, contact the SSA. They can help you navigate the process and may offer additional support.
Inform Family and Caregivers
If you’re an older adult or have a family member receiving benefits, make sure caregivers and loved ones are aware of this change and help with the transition.
Why Is the SSA Making This Change?
This transition is about modernizing payments. By switching to electronic methods, the SSA aims to:
Eliminate theft and fraud associated with paper checks.
Save millions of dollars in printing, handling, and mailing costs.
Speed up payment processing, ensuring recipients get their money faster and more securely.
For millions of Americans, Social Security payments are a crucial lifeline. While payments for July 2025 will continue as expected, significant changes are coming. Make sure you switch to electronic payments before the September 2025 deadline to avoid delays or interruptions in your benefits.
