Two Big Social Security Payments in April: In April 2025, millions of Americans will notice two significant Social Security payments hitting their bank accounts. One payment could be as high as $5,180, while another could reach $967. These amounts reflect the diversity of benefits offered by the Social Security Administration (SSA), but they also raise many questions. Who qualifies for these payments? Why are there two different amounts? When will they arrive? And most importantly, how can you ensure you receive the benefits you’re entitled to?
Understanding how Social Security works is more important than ever, especially as inflation, healthcare costs, and retirement planning become pressing concerns for people of all ages. Whether you’re a retiree, a caregiver, or just planning for your financial future, this guide will help you make sense of April’s payments.
Two Big Social Security Payments in April
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Payments | $5,180 (maximum retirement benefit), $967 (SSI payment) |
| Dates | April 1 (SSI), April 3/9/16/23 (Social Security retirement) |
| Who Gets What | Low-income seniors and disabled individuals (SSI), retirees (SSA retirement benefits) |
| Eligibility | SSI: Limited income/resources. SSA: Work credits and age (62-70) |
| 2025 COLA | 2.5% Cost-of-Living Adjustment applied |
| Official Source | SSA.gov |
In April 2025, Social Security will play a vital role in supporting millions of Americans, offering up to $5,180 in retirement benefits and $967 through SSI. Whether you’re approaching retirement, living with a disability, or helping someone navigate these benefits, understanding who qualifies and how to maximize support is essential.
These payments aren’t just numbers on a page—they represent lifelines for families, seniors, veterans, and everyday workers. To make sure you’re getting every dollar you’re entitled to, stay informed, plan strategically, and always check with official sources like SSA.gov.
Understanding the Two Social Security Payments
What is the $967 Payment?
The $967 payment refers to Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSI is a federal program that provides monthly payments to people who are 65 or older, or who are blind or disabled, and who have limited income and financial resources.
- Payment Date: April 1, 2025
- 2025 Maximum SSI Payment:
- $967 for an eligible individual
- $1,450 for an eligible couple
- $484 for someone assisting an SSI recipient (called an essential person)
- Eligibility Criteria:
- Limited income and resources (assets must be under $2,000 for individuals and $3,000 for couples)
- U.S. residency and citizenship or qualified non-citizen status
- Cannot be incarcerated or in a public institution for the full month
SSI is not the same as Social Security retirement benefits. It is funded by general tax revenues, not payroll taxes. This means even people who have never worked may still qualify for SSI based on their financial situation.
What is the $5,180 Payment?
The $5,180 payment represents the maximum Social Security retirement benefit someone can receive in 2025. This is typically awarded to people who have earned a high income over a long career and who have delayed claiming their benefits until age 70.
- Payment Dates Based on Birthdays:
- April 3: If you started receiving benefits before May 1997
- April 9: If your birthday is between the 1st–10th of any month
- April 16: If your birthday is between the 11th–20th
- April 23: If your birthday is between the 21st–31st
To receive this maximum amount, you must have:
- Worked at least 35 years, ideally at the highest income level subject to Social Security taxes
- Waited until age 70 to start collecting benefits
- Paid into the system by working in jobs covered by Social Security (not certain public pensions or foreign employment)
In 2025, the average monthly retirement benefit is approximately $1,900, according to the SSA. So, the $5,180 figure is at the very top of the spectrum and only applies to those who meet very specific conditions (source).
What Determines Your Payment Amount?
For SSI:
SSI benefits are calculated based on your income, assets, and living situation. The less income you have, the more likely you are to receive the full benefit.
- Income Level: Unearned income (such as pensions) and some earned income can reduce your payment
- Resources: Assets like cash, bank accounts, and property (other than your primary residence) are considered
- Living Situation: If someone else pays for your food or housing, your benefit may be reduced
For Social Security Retirement:
The size of your Social Security check depends on:
- Lifetime Earnings: SSA uses your highest 35 years of indexed earnings to calculate your benefits
- Retirement Age: Claiming at 62 reduces your monthly benefits by up to 30%. Delaying to age 70 increases it by up to 32%
- Work Credits: You need 40 credits (approximately 10 years of work) to qualify for retirement benefits
Additionally, the Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) ensures your payments keep pace with inflation. In 2025, the COLA was set at 2.5%, giving beneficiaries a modest boost to help counter rising costs of living.
Real-World Examples of Social Security Scenarios
Example 1: Jane, Age 67, Retired Teacher
Jane worked as a public-school teacher for 35 years and retired at 67. Thanks to recent legislation repealing the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO), she is now receiving full Social Security benefits in addition to her teacher pension. With her work history and delayed retirement, she qualifies for a benefit close to the maximum: $5,180 per month.
Example 2: Carl, Age 70, Disabled Veteran
Carl is a disabled veteran who receives veterans’ benefits and qualifies for SSI because of limited personal income. He delayed filing for Social Security until age 70, allowing him to maximize his benefit to over $4,900/month. He also receives $967 in SSI, bringing his total monthly support to nearly $5,900.
Example 3: Linda, Age 62, Low-Income Senior
Linda began collecting Social Security as soon as she was eligible at age 62. Because she claimed early, her benefit is reduced to $1,300/month. She also receives $500 in SSI due to her low income. Her total monthly income is still modest, but she benefits from both programs.
Tips to Maximize Your Benefits
- Delay Your Retirement If Possible: Each year you delay receiving Social Security past your full retirement age adds roughly 8% to your monthly check, up to age 70.
- Work Longer at Higher Wages: Since your benefit is based on your 35 highest-earning years, additional years with higher earnings can replace lower-earning ones in your benefit calculation.
- Review Your Earnings Record Regularly: Errors in your earnings history can lower your benefits. Create a My Social Security account to review and correct any discrepancies.
- Apply for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) If Eligible: Even if you’re receiving retirement benefits, you may still qualify for SSI based on financial need.
- Understand Spousal and Survivor Benefits: If you’re married, divorced, or widowed, you may be eligible for additional benefits based on your spouse’s record.
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FAQs About Two Big Social Security Payments in April
Can I receive both SSI and Social Security retirement benefits?
Yes, you can receive both. However, your SSI benefit may be reduced by your Social Security retirement income. You must still meet all the income and asset limitations to qualify for SSI.
Why are there two Social Security payments in April?
Social Security and SSI are two separate programs with different payment schedules. SSI is paid on the first day of each month, while Social Security retirement benefits are paid based on your birth date and staggered throughout the month.
Is the $5,180 a one-time payment?
No, this is a monthly benefit for individuals who qualify based on high lifetime earnings and delayed retirement. It’s not a bonus or stimulus check but a reflection of what they earned and delayed receiving.
What should I do if my payment doesn’t arrive?
If your payment is late, wait at least three business days before contacting the SSA. You can call 1-800-772-1213 or log into your My Social Security account to check your payment status.
Can I qualify for Social Security if I never worked?
Typically, no. Social Security retirement benefits require at least 40 work credits. However, you might qualify for spousal or survivor benefits, or SSI if your income and resources are limited.
