Millions of Social Security beneficiaries are set to receive critical payments this week—including a rare second SSI check for May. However, starting in June 2025, some Americans could see up to 15% of their benefits garnished due to unpaid federal student loans.
Here’s a full breakdown of what’s happening and how it could affect your Social Security payments.
Who Will Get Social Security Checks This Week?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has confirmed two rounds of payments for the last week of May:
- May 28 (Wednesday):
Payments go out to beneficiaries who receive retirement, spousal, or survivor benefits and were born between the 21st and 31st of any month. - May 30 (Friday):
SSI recipients will get their June payment early due to June 1 falling on a weekend. This means SSI beneficiaries will receive two checks in May—on May 1 and May 30.
How Much Will the Social Security Check Be in May 2025?
Thanks to the 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for 2025, the average monthly benefit for retirees now stands at $1,976.
Maximum monthly payments vary by retirement age:
- Retire at 62: Up to $2,831
- Retire at 67 (FRA): Up to $4,318
- Retire at 70: Up to $5,418
For SSI recipients, the 2025 federal maximums are:
- $967 for individuals
- $1,450 for couples
Note: Most people receive less than the maximum, depending on income, living arrangements, and eligibility.
Student Loan Garnishment Returns in June 2025—Up to 15% Deduction
Starting June 2025, a long-paused federal garnishment rule will resume under the Debt Collection Improvement Act. This allows the government to deduct up to 15% of monthly Social Security benefits to collect defaulted federal student loan debt.
Who Will Be Impacted?
- SSDI and retirement beneficiaries in default on federal student loans.
- SSI recipients are generally exempt from garnishment protections.
Your Social Security check cannot be reduced below $750, a threshold set by the U.S. Treasury. However, seniors with already minimal benefits could be placed in hardship due to the deductions.
What Should You Do If You’re at Risk?
- Contact your loan servicer immediately.
- Explore income-driven repayment (IDR) plans or loan rehabilitation options.
- Apply for discharge or forgiveness programs if eligible.
- Seek assistance from a student loan ombudsman or legal aid office.
SSA Delays for New Applications in June 2025
The SSA also warns of longer processing times for new retirement or disability applications due to staffing shortages and a surge in claims. Existing beneficiaries won’t be affected, but new applicants could experience delays in approvals and payment starts.