More than 70 million Americans rely on Social Security benefits each month for essential income. With such a massive system, the Social Security Administration (SSA) spreads payments across the month to avoid processing delays.
As of mid-September 2025, one round of Social Security payments has already been distributed, and now only two payment rounds remain. Understanding exact payment dates and amounts can help retirees and other beneficiaries better manage their budgets.
Here’s the full September 2025 payment calendar, payout details, and an important update about the SSA’s move away from paper checks.
September 2025 Social Security Payment Schedule
Payment dates depend on your date of birth and when you first began receiving benefits. Those who started receiving benefits before May 1997 or receive both SSI (Supplemental Security Income) and Social Security follow an earlier schedule.
Full September 2025 Payment Calendar
Date | Payment Type | Who Gets Paid |
---|---|---|
Wed, Sept 3 | Social Security + SSI | People receiving both SSI and Social Security or started benefits before May 1997 |
Wed, Sept 10 | Retirement/Survivor/Spousal | Birthdays on 1st–10th |
Wed, Sept 17 | Retirement/Survivor/Spousal | Birthdays on 11th–20th |
Wed, Sept 24 | Retirement/Survivor/Spousal | Birthdays on 21st–31st |
Only two rounds remain — September 17 and September 24 — for those born later in the month.
SSI Schedule Change in September
Normally, SSI payments go out on the 1st of each month. But in September 2025, the payment was issued early on August 29 because September 1 was Labor Day.
This means there is no SSI payment in September itself, and October’s SSI payment will arrive as scheduled on October 1, 2025.
How Much You Could Receive in 2025
The maximum Social Security benefit depends on the age you choose to claim and your earnings history. Here’s what retirees could receive:
Claim Age | Maximum Monthly Benefit (2025) |
---|---|
62 years old | About $2,831 |
67 years old (Full Retirement Age) | About $4,018 |
70 years old | About $5,108 |
- Average monthly benefit: About $2,002 (including current COLA)
- The next COLA increase will be announced in October 2025 and will start in January 2026 checks.
SSA Ending Paper Checks
The SSA is eliminating paper checks starting September 30, 2025, as part of its modernization plan.
What this means for you:
- Direct Deposit: Link your bank or credit union account using your My Social Security account.
- Direct Express Card: Apply for a government prepaid debit card if you don’t use a bank.
This mandatory shift to digital payments will reduce delays, lost checks, and payment fraud.
What to Do If Your Payment Is Late
If your September 2025 payment hasn’t arrived:
- Check your SSA payment calendar for your expected date.
- Wait at least 3 business days (excluding weekends/holidays).
- Contact your bank or credit union to confirm it’s not pending.
- Call SSA at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) or visit your local office for assistance.
Tip: Enroll in direct deposit to ensure timely, secure delivery.
With only two Social Security payment rounds left in September—on the 17th and 24th beneficiaries should mark their calendars and prepare for the SSA’s mandatory digital payment transition.
Most retirees can expect their regular monthly benefits, with maximum payments reaching $4,018 at full retirement age, while the average is around $2,002.
To avoid delays, enroll in direct deposit, track your “My Social Security” account, and ensure your personal information is updated so your payments arrive smoothly and on time.
FAQs
Who gets the next two Social Security payments in September 2025?
Those born on the 11th–20th get paid Sept 17, and those born on the 21st–31st get paid Sept 24.
Why didn’t I get my SSI payment in September 2025?
It was paid early on August 29 because September 1 was Labor Day. October’s SSI will come on October 1.
Can I still receive paper Social Security checks after September 30, 2025?
No. The SSA will stop issuing paper checks. You must use direct deposit or a Direct Express card.