Millions of Americans rely on Social Security to pay for essentials like food, rent, and healthcare. This July, many recipients have already received their monthly payments. If you were born between the 1st and 10th of the month, your Social Security check was likely deposited on Wednesday, July 9, 2025.
If your birthday falls between July 11th and 20th, your payment will be sent on Wednesday, July 16th. And if you were born between July 21st and 31st, your check will arrive on Wednesday, July 23rd.
Let’s take a closer look at what’s going on with July payments and the important updates Social Security beneficiaries should know in 2025.
Who Is Getting Payments This Month?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) sends out payments based on birth dates. In July 2025:
- People born between the 1st and 10th were paid on July 9th.
- Those born between the 11th and 20th will get paid on July 16th.
- Recipients born between the 21st and 31st will receive their money on July 23rd.
Some people got their payments earlier. For example, those who started receiving benefits before May 1997 or get both Social Security and SSI were paid on July 3rd. People receiving only SSI benefits were paid on July 1st.
How Much Are the Payments Now?
Thanks to a 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) that went into effect in January 2025, payment amounts are now higher:
- The average monthly benefit for a single retired person is now $1,976.
- The average monthly benefit for a retired couple is now $3,089.
Important: Paper Checks Are Ending Soon
If you still receive your Social Security check by mail, now is the time to switch. Starting in September 2025, the SSA will stop sending paper checks. Instead, you’ll need to receive your money through direct deposit or the Direct Express debit card.
Switching now will help you avoid payment delays or missed checks later this year.
Key Changes to Social Security in 2025
There are a few major updates to be aware of this year:
1. Full Overpayment Recovery Has Resumed
As of April 2025, the SSA has restarted collecting overpayments in full. If you owe money to Social Security, they can take up to 100% of your benefit until the balance is paid. If this would cause hardship, you can request a lower repayment amount or apply for a hardship exemption.
2. New In-Person ID Verification
Starting April 14, 2025, anyone applying for benefits or making big changes to their Social Security account must verify their identity in person at an SSA office. This rule helps protect against fraud but may cause delays for those applying or updating their information.
3. Keep Your SSA Account Information Updated
To make sure there are no issues with your payments, it’s important to review your SSA account regularly. Make sure your bank account info, address, and personal details are all correct. This will help avoid payment problems or delays.
How to Contact the SSA for Help
If you have questions or need assistance with anything related to your benefits, there are several ways to reach the Social Security Administration:
- Call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 from Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- If you are hearing impaired, use the TTY number 1-800-325-0778
- Find a local office by using the locator tool at www.ssa.gov/locator
- Visit the SSA website at www.ssa.gov to apply for benefits, manage your account, or check your payment status
- Log into your “my Social Security” account at www.ssa.gov/myaccount to view your benefit info, update details, and more
Be Ready for Changes and Stay Informed
Whether it’s switching to direct deposit, preparing for new rules about overpayment recovery, or verifying your identity, it’s important to stay up to date. These steps can help make sure you continue receiving your benefits without any interruptions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: When will I get my Social Security payment this month?
If your birthday is between the 11th and 20th, your payment will arrive on July 16th. If your birthday is between the 21st and 31st, your payment will arrive on July 23rd.
Q2: How much will I receive?
With the 2.5% COLA increase, the average benefit is now $1,976 per person or $3,089 per couple.
Q3: When are paper checks ending?
September 2025 is the last month paper checks will be issued. Make sure you’re signed up for direct deposit or the Direct Express card.
Q4: What if I owe money to Social Security?
The SSA may take your full benefit check to recover what you owe. You can request a lower monthly deduction or ask for a hardship waiver.
Q5: How can I contact the SSA?
Call 1-800-772-1213, visit your local SSA office, or manage your account online at www.ssa.gov or www.ssa.gov/myaccount.
