If you depend on your monthly Social Security payment to cover bills, groceries, or your mortgage, staying on top of the schedule is essential.
With more than 71 million Americans receiving retirement, disability, or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), the Social Security Administration (SSA) staggers payment dates to ensure a smooth process.
This September, however, beneficiaries will see an unusual shift because of the Labor Day holiday — plus, a major policy change arrives at the end of the month.
September 2025 Social Security Payment Schedule
Because September 1 falls on Labor Day, SSI benefits are shifted earlier, with payments sent out Friday, August 29 instead. That means no SSI checks will arrive in September.
Here’s the full schedule for Social Security payments in September 2025:
- Friday, August 29 – SSI benefits for September (paid early due to Labor Day).
- Wednesday, September 3 – Payments for those who began receiving benefits before May 1997 and for recipients of both Social Security and SSI.
- Wednesday, September 10 – Payments for birthdays falling between the 1st and 10th.
- Wednesday, September 17 – Payments for birthdays falling between the 11th and 20th.
- Wednesday, September 24 – Payments for birthdays falling between the 21st and 31st.
📊 Quick Snapshot – September 2025 Social Security Payments
| Date | Who Gets Paid? |
|---|---|
| Aug. 29 | SSI beneficiaries (September payment sent early) |
| Sept. 3 | Pre-1997 recipients + those with both Social Security & SSI |
| Sept. 10 | Birthdays 1st–10th |
| Sept. 17 | Birthdays 11th–20th |
| Sept. 24 | Birthdays 21st–31st |
In October, the standard five-check payment cycle resumes without adjustments.
Social Security Policy Change: Paper Checks Ending
A major policy change takes effect September 30, 2025: the SSA will discontinue paper checks. Starting in October, all beneficiaries will receive payments electronically.
Here’s how payments will be distributed going forward:
- Direct Deposit – Funds go straight into your checking or savings account.
- Direct Express Debit Card – For recipients without bank accounts, benefits will be loaded onto a prepaid card.
🔑 Action Steps for Beneficiaries:
- Sign up for direct deposit via your SSA online account.
- Visit your local SSA field office or call 1-800-772-1213 for help.
- To request a Direct Express Card, call 1-877-874-6347.
When Are Monthly Social Security Payments Normally Sent?
Social Security checks are typically sent according to your birth date or the date you first began receiving benefits. Here’s how it works:
- Second Wednesday – If your birthday falls between the 1st and 10th.
- Third Wednesday – If your birthday falls between the 11th and 20th.
- Fourth Wednesday – If your birthday falls between the 21st and 31st.
- 3rd of each month – For anyone who began receiving Social Security before May 1997.
- SSI and Social Security recipients – SSI is paid on the 1st, and Social Security is paid on the 3rd of each month.
Key Takeaways
- No SSI check in September 2025 due to the Labor Day holiday; payments arrive August 29 instead.
- Social Security payments follow the usual Wednesday birth date schedule.
- Paper checks are ending after September 30 — electronic payments will be the only option.
For millions of Americans, keeping track of the Social Security payment schedule ensures bills get paid on time and retirement budgets stay on track.
Stay informed and plan ahead. Social Security remains a lifeline for over 71 million Americans — knowing your payment dates and any upcoming changes is key to staying financially secure.
If you’re unsure about your benefits or need personalized guidance, visit SSA.gov or call 1-800-772-12.