If you’re receiving disability benefits (SSDI), you probably want to know when your payment will come each month. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has had a payment system in place since 1997, distributing payments over three Wednesdays each month. Let’s look at the key dates for July 2025.
SSDI Payment Dates for July 2025
For birthdays between the 1st and 10th: Your payment was already made on Wednesday, July 9th.
For birthdays between the 11th and 20th: Your payment will arrive on Wednesday, July 16th.
For birthdays between the 21st and 31st: Your payment will arrive on Wednesday, July 23rd.
There’s also a special group that receives payments earlier: those who started before May 1997 or those who combine SSDI with SSI (Supplementary Security Income). These individuals already received their payment on July 3rd.
How Much is the Average SSDI Payment in 2025?
In 2025, the typical monthly payment for someone receiving SSDI is around $1,580. This amount can vary, depending on a person’s work history and disability status. For comparison, retirees on Social Security typically receive about $2,002 per month. The maximum SSDI benefit is $4,018, while the maximum for retirees is $5,108.
The End of Paper Checks: What You Need to Do Now
If you are still receiving a paper check for your benefits, you’ll want to act quickly. Starting in March 2025, the federal government announced that it would stop sending paper checks for federal payments. This includes SSDI, SSI, retirement benefits, tax refunds, and more. The final day to receive paper checks will be September 30, 2025.
Why is this change happening? The government is making this switch for a few reasons:
Security: Paper checks are 16 times more likely to be lost or stolen than direct deposits.
Cost: The check system costs the government nearly $750 million annually to maintain.
Efficiency: Electronic payments are quicker and more reliable for everyone.
Who Will Be Affected by the Change?
As of June 2025, around 485,000 Americans—many of them elderly or without easy access to banking—still rely on paper checks. If you’re one of them, it’s crucial to switch to direct deposit before the deadline. Otherwise, you might face delays or interruptions in receiving your benefits.
How to Switch to Direct Deposit
The best and most secure way to ensure your payment arrives on time is to switch to direct deposit into your bank account. If you don’t have a traditional bank account, you can use the Direct Express card, a prepaid debit card designed for people who don’t have a bank.
You can sign up for direct deposit or a prepaid card in several ways:
Online at the Social Security website (SSA.gov).
By calling the SSA.
By mailing in a form.
By visiting your local Social Security office.
For people without bank accounts, you can get more information or apply for the Direct Express card at GoDirect.gov, which is managed by the Department of the Treasury.
Can You Still Get Paper Checks?
There are a few exceptions for people who live in remote, unbanked areas or have special circumstances. However, to qualify for this, you must apply to the Department of the Treasury and SSA with supporting documentation. Make sure to apply well in advance if you think you may qualify.
The Importance of Acting Now
Remember, the deadline to switch your payment method is September 30, 2025. After this date, if you haven’t switched to direct deposit or a prepaid card, you risk not receiving your payment or facing serious delays. By signing up now, you can ensure that your benefits will arrive on time and securely every month.
