Millions of Social Security beneficiaries will receive their next monthly payment on April 16, 2025. This installment includes the 2.5% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA), aimed at helping retirees manage higher living costs.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has confirmed that the second round of April payments will be sent out on Tuesday, April 16. This batch is for retirees whose birthdays fall between the 11th and 20th of any month. These recipients will automatically get the COLA increase that began earlier this year.
April’s first payment was issued on April 9 for beneficiaries born from the 1st to the 10th. The SSA divides monthly payments into three groups based on birth dates to ensure smooth distribution.
Who Gets Paid on April 16?
If you were born between the 11th and 20th of any month, your April Social Security payment will arrive on Tuesday, April 16.
There’s no need to apply for the COLA increase separately. The SSA adjusts the monthly amount automatically. This year’s 2.5% COLA was added to all monthly benefits starting in January 2025.
Social Security remains a key source of income for many older Americans. These automatic increases aim to keep up with the cost of food, housing, healthcare, and other essentials.
How Much Will Retirees Receive?
Monthly Social Security payments vary based on factors like your retirement age and lifetime earnings.
Here’s what to expect in 2025:
-
Retired at 62: Up to $2,831 per month
-
Retired at full retirement age (67): Up to $3,822 per month
-
Retired at 70: Up to $5,108 per month
These amounts reflect the COLA increase and are part of the SSA’s tiered system. Delaying retirement past age 62 can significantly boost your benefits.
What’s New for Social Security in 2025?
Besides the COLA increase, a few other changes took effect this year:
Higher Earnings Cap for Workers
The maximum taxable earnings for Social Security contributions rose to $176,100 in 2025. This change affects higher earners who are still working and paying into the system.
Gradual Retirement Age Shift
The full retirement age (FRA) is continuing its phased increase. For those born in 1960 or later, the FRA is now 67. This slow adjustment is part of the SSA’s strategy to maintain long-term financial stability.
Why the COLA Matters
COLAs help protect the buying power of retirees. In times of inflation, fixed incomes can lose value quickly. A 2.5% increase may seem small, but over time, it helps recipients keep up with rising expenses.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, prices for groceries, rent, and medical care have continued to climb in recent months. For millions of retirees, every dollar counts.
When Is the Next Social Security Payment?
The next round of payments is scheduled for Wednesday, April 23. This will cover retirees born between the 21st and 31st of any month. Like previous payments, this deposit will also include the 2.5% COLA boost.
Here’s a quick breakdown of April payment dates:
-
April 9: Birthdays 1st–10th
-
April 16: Birthdays 11th–20th
-
April 23: Birthdays 21st–31st
Staying aware of these dates can help retirees plan their monthly budgets.
How to Check Your Payment
You can view your upcoming Social Security payment details through the My Social Security portal at ssa.gov. This free online tool allows users to:
-
Check deposit dates
-
Confirm payment amounts
-
Update personal details
-
Track benefit history
If you receive your benefits via direct deposit, the funds usually appear in your bank account by the morning of the scheduled date. Paper checks may take a few additional days to arrive.
Final Thoughts
Social Security remains a lifeline for over 66 million Americans. The April 16 payment brings a small but important increase through the 2.5% COLA, helping retirees face economic challenges with a bit more financial confidence.