$967 Social Security Check on May 1: A $967 Social Security check on May 1, 2025 is expected to land in the bank accounts of millions of eligible Americans. But who exactly qualifies for this payment? What does this amount represent? And why are some recipients receiving two payments in May? This article breaks it all down, including eligibility requirements, payment schedules, cost-of-living adjustments (COLA), and essential financial planning tips—whether you’re already receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or applying for the first time.
$967 Social Security Check on May 1
The $967 Social Security check on May 1 is part of the routine SSI benefit payment for eligible individuals in 2025. With an early June payment landing on May 30, recipients must be careful to budget accordingly for the month of June. Understanding who qualifies, why payments are timed this way, and how to apply is crucial for maintaining financial security. Whether you’re new to SSI or a long-time recipient, staying informed about COLA changes, eligibility requirements, and payment schedules ensures you get the most out of your benefits.
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Dates | May 1, 2025 (May payment); May 30, 2025 (early June payment) |
| Maximum SSI Amount (2025) | $967 for individuals; $1,450 for couples; $484 for essential persons |
| COLA Adjustment for 2025 | 2.5% increase based on inflation |
| Eligibility | Age 65+, or blind/disabled, with limited income/resources and U.S. residency |
| Reason for 2 May Payments | June 1 falls on a Sunday—SSA pays June benefit early |
| Official SSA Info | ssa.gov/oact/cola/SSI.html |
Understanding the $967 SSI Payment
The $967 monthly payment is the maximum Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefit for individuals in 2025. This amount reflects the annual Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) applied by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to offset inflation. For 2025, the COLA is 2.5%, slightly lower than the previous year’s increase but still significant in maintaining purchasing power for low-income recipients.
Couples may receive up to $1,450 monthly, and essential persons (caregivers living with a recipient) may qualify for up to $484.
Why Two Payments in May 2025?
Because June 1 falls on a Sunday, the SSA is issuing the June benefit early—on May 30. As a result, recipients will see two deposits in May, but no deposit in June. This is a standard scheduling practice and does not reflect an increase or bonus.
Eligibility Criteria for SSI in 2025
To qualify for the maximum $967 monthly SSI benefit, you must meet several strict criteria:
1. Age or Disability
You must be:
- At least 65 years old, or
- Blind, or
- Disabled with a medically documented condition expected to last 12+ months or result in death.
2. Income Limits
- Individuals: Less than $2,019/month in earned/unearned income.
- Couples: Less than $2,985/month.
These amounts may vary slightly depending on your location and specific circumstances.
3. Resource Limits
- Individuals: No more than $2,000 in countable resources.
- Couples: No more than $3,000. Countable resources include bank accounts, stocks, and property (excluding your home and primary car).
4. U.S. Residency and Citizenship
- Must live in the U.S. or the Northern Mariana Islands.
- Must be a U.S. citizen or qualifying lawful permanent resident.
SSI Payment Schedule: May and Beyond
The SSA generally issues SSI payments on the 1st of each month. However, if the 1st falls on a weekend or holiday, the payment is made on the business day before.
May 2025 Timeline
- May 1: Regular May SSI payment.
- May 30: Early June payment (since June 1 is a Sunday).
- No payment will be issued in June.
Keep in mind this advance payment is not a bonus. Recipients should budget wisely to ensure their June expenses are covered.
A Look at COLA: Why It Matters
The Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) is vital for SSI and Social Security beneficiaries. It’s calculated annually using data from the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W).
Recent COLA Trends
- 2022: 5.9%
- 2023: 8.7% (largest since 1981)
- 2024: 3.2%
- 2025: 2.5%
While 2.5% might seem modest, it still provides crucial relief for recipients facing rising prices in food, rent, and utilities
How to Apply for $967 Social Security Check on May 1?
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Review Eligibility: Use the SSA screening tool to verify if you’re eligible.
- Gather Documents: Have your Social Security number, income details, and bank information ready.
- Apply:
- Online: ssa.gov/ssi
- Phone: 1-800-772-1213
- In-person: Schedule at your local SSA office
Checking Payment Status
Use your My Social Security account to view payment history, update direct deposit info, and receive updates.
Real-Life Example: Who Gets $967 in 2025?
Case Example: Sarah, Age 67
- Retired nurse with no pension.
- Monthly Social Security: $500
- No other income or assets
- Lives alone in rural Arkansas
Sarah qualifies for full SSI benefits. Her SSI check is adjusted so that her total monthly income (Social Security + SSI) equals $967. That means she gets $467 in SSI, and $500 in Social Security, adding up to the federal benefit rate.
Smart Financial Planning Tips
Receiving two checks in May can be tempting, but it’s essential to treat the May 30 check as your June income.
Here are some tips to manage your SSI funds responsibly:
- Create a monthly budget using a simple spreadsheet or app.
- Divide May’s second payment into weekly spending limits for June.
- Set up direct deposit to avoid delays and theft.
- Explore state benefits, such as SNAP or Medicaid, which often accompany SSI eligibility.
$2,000 Social Security Payment in May 2025 – Check if You’re Receiving It
$3,250 Direct Payments for Social Security & SSDI Recipients in May 2025; Check Eligibility & Date
$2400 Monthly Social Security Payment in May 2025: Are you eligible to get it? Check Date
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Am I getting extra money from Social Security in May 2025?
A: No. The second payment in May is your regular June SSI payment, issued early because June 1 is a Sunday.
Q2. Will I get a check in June 2025?
A: No. Because your June payment was issued early on May 30, you will not receive a payment in June.
Q3. Can I receive both SSI and Social Security retirement benefits?
A: Yes, many people do. SSI can supplement your Social Security if your total benefit is below the maximum federal benefit rate.
Q4. What happens if I earn too much to qualify for SSI?
A: If your countable income exceeds the limits, you may lose eligibility. However, you may still qualify for other forms of assistance.
