Millions of Americans will receive Social Security payments on three different dates in February, depending on their birthdate. If you were born between the 1st and 10th, you will be paid on the second Wednesday (February 12); between the 11th and 20th, the third Wednesday (February 19); and between the 21st and 31st, the fourth Wednesday (February 26).
This system ensures that funds are distributed to all beneficiaries in an organized manner.
Those receiving SSI (Supplemental Security Income) will, however, receive an advance on their March payment. Because March 1st falls on a weekend, payment will be made on Friday, February 28. This change saves beneficiaries from having to wait until Monday and ensures they receive their funds on time.
What’s the maximum Social Security check and who can get it
To receive the maximum Social Security payment in 2025, which is $5,108 per month, you must have been a high-income taxpayer all your working life. This requires earning the maximum Social Security taxable wage, which in 2025 is $168,600 per year, for at least 35 years.
Furthermore, in order to be eligible for this maximum amount, beneficiaries must postpone retirement until they reach the age of 70, when they will receive the full benefit. Only those who meet the requirements can apply for this payment.
The average and the maximum are different amounts
In comparison, the average retirement benefit in January 2025 is $1,976.30, which is significantly lower. Most beneficiaries do not reach the maximum because they did not have high incomes or did not work for the required 35 years. Many people choose to retire before the age of 70, reducing their monthly benefit.
As a result, the maximum payment is reserved for a small group of taxpayers who have high-paying jobs and meticulous retirement planning that takes years. For households receiving Supplemental Security Income in 2025, the SSA maximum is $967 for individuals and $1,450 for cohabiting couples. The maximum monthly payment for an essential support person is $484.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) increased payments, retirement benefits, and disability benefits (SSDI) by 2.5% after the 2025 COLA.
These amounts will remain in effect until December inclusive; payments will be updated in September based on the inflation that has accumulated since September 2024. It is also unclear whether President Donald Trump’s administration will make any changes or movements in funding for programs such as Social Security.
