Social Security money coming in just 3 days for Americans: What to do if payment doesn't arrive?

Millions of retirees in the United States rely on monthly Social Security payments to cover their basic needs and Americans are entitled to receive the payment in a few days. The next payment is scheduled for Wednesday, August 20, 2025, and corresponds to a specific category of beneficiaries.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) distributes monthly benefits to retirees, people with disabilities and the families of deceased workers. Because there are multiple payment types and about 70 million beneficiaries, not everyone receives their money at the same time.

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Most Social Security beneficiaries receive their payments according to their birth date. However, there are exceptions—those who started collecting benefits before May 1997 or who also qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

SSI is a federal program that provides monthly financial support to individuals with disabilities, people who are blind, and adults age 65 or older who meet specific income requirements. Recipients in these categories are typically paid during the first week of each month.

Who will receive Social Security payments on August 20?

According to the Social Security Administration (SSA) schedule, payments are distributed in three monthly rounds, depending on the beneficiary's date of birth:

Friday, August 1: SSI payments and retirement benefits for those who have been collecting checks since before May 1997 and retirees who also collect SSI benefits.

Wednesday, August 13: Retirement, spousal and survivor benefits for those born between the 1st and 10th of any calendar month

Wednesday, August 20: Benefits for those born between the 11th and 20th

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Wednesday, August 27: Benefits for those with birthdays between the 21st and 31st

Friday, August 29: SSI payments. This payment would usually come at the first of the month for September. However, due to September 1 falling on Labor Day, a national holiday, the payment will be made slightly earlier.

This group includes retirees, people with disabilities and other beneficiaries who receive regular payments from Social Security.

How much money will you receive?

The exact benefit amount you receive depends on your work history and the type of Social Security benefit. In 2025, the average monthly payment for retirees is about $1,907. However, this can vary:

High earners who worked and contributed for many years may receive up to $4,873 per month

Disabled workers (SSDI) receive an average of $1,537 per month

Widows, widowers, and dependents have payments adjusted based on their family circumstances

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How to find out your benefit amount

To know your exact benefit, log into your My Social Security account at ssa.gov. If you’re enrolled, you may also get notifications by mail or text message.

What to do if your payment doesn’t arrive

If your payment is missing:

Wait at least 3 business days after the scheduled date

Contact the SSA at 1-800-772-1213

Verify your bank account or deposit method

Check for updates to your personal details on file

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Can you change your payment date?

No. Payment dates follow the official SSA calendar and cannot be changed. However, you do have the option to switch your payment method to direct deposit or a Direct Express® card for faster and more secure access.