As April moves forward, millions of Americans are looking forward to their Social Security payments. For many retirees and beneficiaries, these monthly deposits are critical to covering everyday expenses—from housing and food to medical care.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) follows a specific payment schedule, and for April 2025, the key dates are Wednesday, April 16 and Wednesday, April 23.
However, not everyone receives their benefits on the same day. The timing depends on your date of birth and the type of Social Security benefit you receive. To ensure you receive your payment on time, it’s important to understand the eligibility criteria and payment structure.
Who Gets Paid on April 16 and April 23?
Social Security payments in the U.S. are typically issued on a staggered schedule, based on the birthdate of the recipient. For those receiving Social Security retirement, survivors, or disability benefits (SSDI), the payment dates are organized by birth date as follows:
| Birthday Falls On | Payment Date (April 2025) |
|---|---|
| 1st – 10th of any month | April 9 |
| 11th – 20th of any month | April 16 |
| 21st – 31st of any month | April 23 |
If your birthday falls between the 11th and 20th, you will receive your payment on April 16. If your birthday is between the 21st and 31st, your benefits will arrive on April 23.
Key Requirements to Receive Social Security Payments
To receive your payment on either April 16 or 23, you must meet the following criteria:
1. Be Eligible for Social Security Benefits
You must already be enrolled in one of the following programs:
- Social Security Retirement Benefits
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
- Survivor Benefits
If you are receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI), your payment likely arrived earlier, on April 1, since SSI follows a different schedule.
2. Have a Valid Payment Method on File
The SSA requires recipients to receive benefits through direct deposit or a Direct Express debit card. If your banking information has changed, make sure it’s updated in your SSA account to avoid delays.
3. No Issues or Holds on Your Account
If there are any unresolved issues, such as identity verification problems or overpayment reviews, your payment may be delayed. Make sure your Social Security account is in good standing.
4. Correct Birth Date on Record
Your payment date is determined by your birth date. If your Social Security file has incorrect information, such as the wrong date of birth, it may affect when you receive your payment. Verify all details in your My Social Security account.
Payment Amounts – How Much Will You Get?
The average monthly payment in 2025 varies by benefit type:
- Retirees: Average of $1,900/month
- Disabled workers: Average of $1,550/month
- Survivors (widows/widowers): Around $1,700/month
Your exact amount depends on your work history, age of retirement, and lifetime earnings. If you’re unsure of your payment amount, you can check your My Social Security portal at ssa.gov.
What to Do If You Don’t Receive Your Payment
If April 16 or April 23 comes and goes and your payment hasn’t arrived, don’t panic. Here’s what you should do:
- Wait 3 mailing days: Sometimes direct deposit may be slightly delayed.
- Check your bank or card account to verify if the deposit was made.
- Contact the SSA if you haven’t received anything after three days:
- Call 1-800-772-1213
- Visit your local SSA office (by appointment)
Final Thoughts
Knowing your exact Social Security payment date can bring peace of mind. If your birthday falls between the 11th and 31st, you should be receiving your benefit on either April 16 or April 23. Just make sure you meet the eligibility requirements, keep your information current, and monitor your bank or Direct Express account for the deposit.
As always, the best way to stay informed is by regularly checking your My Social Security account online and signing up for updates. With the SSA’s consistent schedule and tools, you can confidently plan around your upcoming payment.
