For many retired people in the United States, the monthly Social Security check is not just financial help—it is a lifeline. After years of hard work and regular contributions, this money becomes the main source of income for millions, helping them pay for basic needs like rent, medicine, and groceries.
With the next payment date approaching, many are wondering whether they are in the group receiving the April 23 check, and what they can do to get a bigger benefit amount in the future.
Who Will Receive the April 23 Social Security Check?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) follows a set payment calendar every month based on your date of birth and the date when you first started receiving benefits.
The payment on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, is meant for Group 4 beneficiaries. You are part of this group if:
- You started receiving Social Security after May 1997
- Your birthday falls between the 21st and 31st of any month
If both these points apply to you, your check will be deposited directly into your bank account on April 23. There’s no need for paperwork or special steps—as long as your account and personal details are updated with the SSA.
What About Other Groups?
Here’s how SSA payments are generally organised:
- Birthdays 1st–10th: Paid on the second Wednesday of the month
- Birthdays 11th–20th: Paid on the third Wednesday
- Birthdays 21st–31st: Paid on the fourth Wednesday (April 23 in this case)
This organised schedule helps the SSA send payments smoothly and avoid system delays.
Does the Payment Amount Change Based on Date?
No, the payment date does not affect how much money you get. The amount is calculated based on deeper factors, such as:
- Your total income over your career
- The number of years you worked
- The age at which you started claiming Social Security
Let’s explore how you can increase your Social Security payments.
How to Maximise Your Social Security Retirement Check
While some people start collecting their benefits as soon as they’re eligible at age 62, waiting longer can increase your monthly payments. Here are the three best ways to boost your future Social Security check:
1. Delay Retirement Until Age 70
If you wait until age 70 to retire, you can receive up to 8% more in monthly benefits for each year you delay after your full retirement age (which is 67 for most people). This strategy can significantly increase your check.
For example, someone retiring at 70 might get hundreds of dollars more per month compared to someone who retires at 62.
2. Work for at Least 35 Years
The SSA calculates your retirement benefits based on your 35 highest earning years. If you work less than that, some years will be counted as zero, which lowers your average and your benefit.
Even part-time work after retirement age can fill in the gaps and improve your benefit total.
3. Earn a Higher Salary During Working Years
Since your Social Security check is based on how much you earned and contributed, getting pay raises, bonuses, or better-paying jobs throughout your career helps boost your benefit.
More income = higher contributions = higher monthly benefits later.
Final Thoughts on Social Security and Retirement Planning
Whether you’re already retired or planning for the future, it’s important to understand how Social Security works and what steps you can take to make the most of it.
- Keep your SSA records updated
- Check your My Social Security account online regularly
- Seek advice from a retirement planner if needed
Knowing your payment group, tracking your payment schedule, and using strategies like delaying retirement or increasing your work years can help ensure a comfortable and secure retirement.
