As the month of April comes to an end, many retired citizens in the United States are waiting for their last Social Security payment. These monthly payments help millions of Americans cover daily expenses, especially those who rely fully on retirement benefits.
However, not everyone receives their check on the same day. Your birthdate and the date you started receiving Social Security decide your payment date. If you’re still waiting for your April payment, it’s important to know whether you’re part of the final group to receive it—and what you can do to get it faster next month.
Social Security Payments Don’t Arrive the Same Day for Everyone
Many people believe that Social Security checks are sent on the same day they’re received. But that’s not exactly true. The Social Security Administration (SSA) sends payments on specific days depending on your group. The arrival of the money in your bank account might vary due to your chosen payment method or if your personal information is not updated.
So while the SSA sends the payment on a particular day, getting it depends on other factors like your bank, method of payment, and more.
Who Will Receive the Last Social Security Payment in April?
Only certain retirees qualify for the final Social Security payment of the month, which is scheduled for April 23, 2025. To be eligible for this last payment, you must meet two specific conditions:
- Your birthday must fall between the 21st and 31st of any month.
- You must have started receiving retirement benefits after May 1997.
If both conditions apply to you, then you are in what the SSA calls Group 4, and you will receive your April check on Wednesday, April 23, 2025.
After this date, no more Social Security checks will be sent for April. So if you miss this one, you’ll have to wait until May’s payment schedule.
How to Get Your Social Security Payment Faster
If you want your payment to reach your account on the same day the SSA sends it, the best thing to do is activate Direct Deposit. This is the fastest and most secure way to receive government payments.
But that’s not the only step you can take:
- Keep your personal details up to date with the SSA. Even small changes like a new address, marriage, divorce, or bank account update must be reported.
- Check the official payment calendar regularly, so you know exactly when to expect your money.
- Avoid mailing delays by choosing electronic delivery methods over paper checks.
Being aware and updated helps avoid any delays and ensures your money arrives on time.
Why Knowing Your Payment Group Matters
Social Security recipients are split into different groups depending on their birthdate and when they began receiving benefits. That’s why two people receiving the same type of retirement benefit may receive their money on different dates.
Here’s a quick reminder:
- Group 1: Benefits before May 1997 → Paid early in the month
- Groups 2 to 4: Benefits after May 1997 → Paid based on birthdate in mid or late month
Knowing your group helps you plan your budget better and avoid confusion or panic if someone else receives their payment before you do.
If your birthday is between the 21st and 31st and you started getting Social Security after May 1997, your next payment is scheduled for April 23, 2025. This is the last payment for April, so make sure your bank and personal details are up to date to avoid any delays.
And if you want to receive your money as soon as possible, activate Direct Deposit with the SSA today. A little preparation goes a long way in keeping your finances running smoothly every month.