Millions of Americans will receive their latest Social Security payment this week. Checks of up to $5,181 are set to be distributed on Wednesday. Social Security or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits reach about 75 million people nationwide. Payment schedules are linked to beneficiaries’ birth dates.
Payment Schedules
Most Social Security beneficiaries receive payments based on when they were born:
- Birthdates from the 1st to 10th: Payments on the second Wednesday
- Birthdates from the 11th to 20th: Payments on the third Wednesday
- Birthdates from the 21st to 31st: Payments on the fourth Wednesday
This week, payments will be made to those born between the 11th and 20th. Some exceptions exist. Individuals who started receiving Social Security before May 1997 or those who get both Social Security and SSI typically receive payments on the third of the month. SSI is usually paid on the first. The SSA advises beneficiaries to wait three working days before contacting them if payments are not received as expected.
Payment Amounts
Retirement payments depend largely on a person’s earning history and the age benefits start. In 2026, the maximum monthly retirement benefit for someone at age 62 is $2,969, $4,152 at full retirement age, and $5,181 at age 70. Typically, retirees receive less. The average retired worker received $2,085.98 in July 2026. The average payment across all beneficiaries, including survivors and disability recipients, was $1,940.08.
Earnings and Credits
Workers need 40 Social Security credits to retire. In 2026, one credit is earned for every $1,890 in covered earnings, with a maximum of four credits earned per year.
Understanding Maximum Benefits
The $5,181 figure is the highest possible benefit for someone who reached the taxable maximum for earnings over many years and delayed benefits until age 70. Most retirees see significantly lower amounts. The typical retired-worker benefit is much lower, showing a more realistic expectation.
COLA Forecasts for 2027
The latest inflation data reveals possible increases for Social Security benefits in 2027. Reports indicate that the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) may be between 3.4% and 3.6%. Last year, increases were 2.8%. The COLA is calculated using the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W), comparing three months’ averages from successive years. The Bureau of Labor Statistics will release September’s CPI-W reading on October 14, a key factor for the final 2027 COLA.
Impact of Medicare Part B
Beneficiaries must consider Medicare Part B premiums, which are deducted from Social Security benefits. This means that while gross benefits may rise, net increases are less predictable. The final net increase will depend on both the upcoming COLA and 2027’s Part B premiums.