Millions of Social Security recipients received their March 12 payment, but two more rounds of deposits are scheduled for March 19 and 26. These mark the final payments before a landmark benefit increase takes effect in April under the Social Security Fairness Act. Here’s what you need to know.
March 2025 Payment Schedule
Payments are issued based on the beneficiaries’ birth dates:
- ✔️ March 19: Born between the 11th–20th of any month.
- ✔️ March 26: Born between the 21st–31st of any month.
Pro Tip: Ensure your Direct Deposit details are updated via your mySocialSecurity account to avoid delays. Paper checks may take 3–5 days longer.
April 2025: What’s Changing?
April payments will reflect the first benefit increases from the Social Security Fairness Act, signed into law in late 2024. Key updates include:
- Repeal of the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO), which previously reduced benefits for public-sector workers.
- Who Benefits Most:
- Teachers, police officers, firefighters, and federal employees.
- Surviving spouses/dependents impacted by GPO.
- Some retirees may receive retroactive lump sums for underpaid benefits.
📋 April 2025 Payment Dates
| Payment Date | Who Receives It? |
|---|---|
| April 3 | Group 1: Retirees who began benefits before May 1997 |
| April 9 | Group 2: Born 1st–10th |
| April 16 | Group 3: Born 11th–20th |
| April 23 | Group 4: Born 21st–31st |
Note: Increased amounts apply only to those affected by WEP/GPO.
How to Check Your New Payment Amount
- Online: Log in to your mySocialSecurity account.
- Phone: Call SSA at 1-800-772-1213 (Mon–Fri, 8 AM–7 PM ET).
- Mail: Look for official notices from SSA in late March.
Missing a Payment? Follow These Steps
1️⃣ Confirm your payment date (based on birth month).
2️⃣ Wait 3 business days for Direct Deposit delays.
3️⃣ Check bank accounts for pending transactions.
4️⃣ Use the “Where’s My Payment?” tool online.
5️⃣ Contact SSA if unresolved.
Conclusion
- March 19 & 26: Final payments under current benefit rates.
- April 2025: Higher payments for public-sector retirees and survivors.
- Retroactive pay: Some may receive lump sums for past underpayments.
- Stay updated: Verify your Direct Deposit info and monitor your SSA account.
For full details, visit SSA.gov or download the 2025 Payment Schedule.