Millions of Americans count on Social Security, and July 2025 payments are expected to arrive on time. But some people may see smaller checks than usual. That’s because the Social Security Administration (SSA) is starting to recover overpayments made in past years, a move that could affect a large number of recipients
Overpayment Recovery Begins in July
July’s payments are still going out as scheduled, but there’s a new wrinkle for some recipients. The SSA is kicking off a recovery effort this month aimed at people who were overpaid in the past. If you haven’t set up a plan to pay it back, the agency could start taking up to half of your monthly check until the full amount is repaid
It’s not clear how many people will be affected, but recent data reveals the scope of the issue. According to records obtained through a Freedom of Information Act request, the SSA attempted to recover overpayments from nearly 2 million people during the 2023 fiscal year alone. The new crackdown could lead to surprise cuts in some benefit checks starting this summer.
When Will You Receive Your Social Security Check in July?
Following the SSA’s standard schedule. Your payment date depends on your birthdate:
- Wednesday, July 9 – If your birthday is between the 1st and 10th
- Wednesday, July 16 – If your birthday is between the 11th and 20th
- Wednesday, July 23 – If your birthday is between the 21st and 31st
This schedule applies to Social Security retirement, survivor, and disability benefits. If you’re receiving both Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) you’ll get those payments separately on their respective dates.
July 2025 SSI Payment Schedule
If you receive SSI, your payment for July was issued on Tuesday, July 1. SSI payments typically go out on the first of the month, but if that day falls on a weekend or holiday, they’re sent out the business day before.
Unlike some months where SSI recipients get two payments due to timing quirks (such as in February or May), there will only be one SSI payment in July.
Here’s the rest of the SSI payment schedule for the year:
- Friday, Aug. 1 – Payment for August
- Friday, Aug. 30 – Advance payment for September
- Wednesday, Oct. 1 – Payment for October
- Friday, Oct. 31 – Advance payment for November
- Monday, Dec. 1 – Payment for December
- Wednesday, Dec. 31 – Advance payment for January (2026)
Who Qualifies for SSI?
SSI is designed to support individuals with limited income and resources, including those who are 65 or older, blind, or have a qualifying disability. Children with disabilities may also be eligible.
In general, adults who qualify for SSI must have monthly income below $2,019. You can apply for SSI online, over the phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at your local Social Security office.
What’s Changing with Social Security in 2025?
A few changes are kicking in this year that could impact your benefits:
- COLA Adjustment: Benefits are going up by 2.5% in 2025, a drop from last year’s 3.4% increase. It helps with inflation, but the bump might feel modest compared to recent years.
- Taxable Earnings Cap: The amount of income subject to Social Security tax is rising from $168,000 to $176,100.
- Maximum Benefit: If you retire at full retirement age, the most you can get per month is increasing from $3,822 to $4,018 — just over $48,000 a year.
- Local Office Upgrades: The Social Security Administration is making it easier to get in-person help by expanding appointment options and working to shorten wait times.
What Is Full Retirement Age in 2025?
The Full Retirement Age (FRA) varies depending on your birth year. For people born between May 2, 1958, and February 28, 1959, full retirement age is 66 years and 10 months in 2025. For those born in 1960 or later, full retirement age is 67.
While you can begin claiming Social Security as early as age 62, doing so will reduce your monthly payout. On the flip side, delaying benefits until age 70 can significantly increase your monthly amount.
Final Thoughts
July comes in with a range of payments and policy changes that could potentially impact your monthly expenditure. Even though most people will receive their benefits on time, those with any unresolved overpayments could see reduced benefits.
If you’re unsure about your specific payment date or amount, check your online account or contact the SSA directly.