Millions of Americans are seeing their Social Security payments land in their accounts today, August 28, 2025, with some eligible for checks as high as $5,108. If your birthday falls between the 21st and 31st of any month, today could be your payday! This maximum payout is reserved for those who delayed retirement until age 70, but all eligible retirees, survivors, and disability beneficiaries in this birth date range should see their funds today. Here’s everything you need to know about the August 2025 Social Security payment schedule, who qualifies, and what to do if your money doesn’t arrive.
Today’s Big Social Security Payout: August 28, 2025
Over 71 million Americans rely on Social Security benefits each month, and today, August 28, is a major payment day for those born between the 21st and 31st. The Social Security Administration (SSA) sends out checks or direct deposits on a staggered schedule based on your birth date, and today’s the day for this group to cash in.
The maximum monthly benefit of $5,108 is making headlines, but only a select few qualify for this amount. Whether you’re getting the max or a standard payment, this guide breaks down the details so you can confirm your payment and plan your finances.
Who’s Getting Paid Today?
If your birthday is between the 21st and 31st of any month, your Social Security payment is scheduled for today, August 28, 2025. This includes:
- Retired workers
- Spouses of retirees
- Survivors (widows/widowers)
- Disability beneficiaries (SSDI)
Note: If you receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or started Social Security before May 1997, your payments follow a different schedule (typically the 1st or 3rd of the month, with August adjustments due to holidays).
Why $5,108? Understanding the Maximum Benefit
The $5,108 monthly payment is the highest Social Security benefit available in 2025, but it’s not for everyone. To qualify, you must have:
- Delayed claiming Social Security until age 70 for maximum delayed retirement credits.
- Earned high wages for at least 35 years, contributing the maximum taxable amount to Social Security.
Here’s how 2025 maximum benefits vary by claiming age:
| Retirement Age | Maximum Monthly Benefit |
|---|---|
| Age 62 | ~$2,831 |
| Age 67 (Full Retirement) | ~$4,018 |
| Age 70 | Up to $5,108 |
Most retirees receive less than the maximum, with average payments closer to $1,900–$2,500, depending on work history and claiming age.
August 2025 Payment Schedule by Birth Date
The SSA organizes payments by birth date to manage millions of transactions smoothly. Here’s the full August 2025 schedule:
| Birthday Range | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| 1st–10th | August 14, 2025 (2nd Wednesday) |
| 11th–20th | August 21, 2025 (3rd Wednesday) |
| 21st–31st | August 28, 2025 (4th Wednesday) |
If your birthday is between the 21st and 31st, check your bank account today for your direct deposit. If you receive paper checks, allow 3–5 business days for delivery.
Early Payments in August 2025
Due to calendar quirks, some payments were adjusted:
- Beneficiaries who started Social Security before May 1997 or receive both Social Security and SSI got paid on August 1 (instead of August 3, a Sunday).
- SSI payments for September were issued on August 29 (instead of September 1, Labor Day).
These early payments ensure no delays due to weekends or holidays.
How Payments Arrive: Direct Deposit vs. Paper Checks
Most beneficiaries receive payments via direct deposit, which typically hits accounts by noon on the scheduled day, depending on your bank. If you still get paper checks, note that the SSA is phasing them out by September 30, 2025. If your check hasn’t arrived after 3 business days, contact your bank or the SSA at 1-800-772-1213.
Watch Out: Overpayment Withholdings
A new SSA policy in 2025 may reduce your payment if you were overpaid in the past. Up to 50% of your benefit could be withheld to recover overpayments. If your payment is lower than expected:
- Check for an overpayment notice in your mail or mySocialSecurity account.
- Request a waiver or repayment plan via ssa.gov if the overpayment wasn’t your fault.
2026 COLA Preview: What’s Next?
Looking ahead, the 2026 Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) is projected at 2.5%, based on early inflation data. This could boost next year’s payments:
- Maximum $5,108 payment could increase by ~$127/month.
- Average payments could rise by $45–$100/month.
The official 2026 COLA will be announced in October 2025, based on the CPI-W index.
Tips to Maximize Your Social Security
Want a bigger check in the future? Try these:
- Delay claiming until 70: Boosts your benefit by up to 32% compared to full retirement age.
- Work high-earning years: Your benefit is based on your top 35 earning years. Replace low-earning years with higher income if possible.
- Check your SSA account: Use mySocialSecurity at ssa.gov to review your earnings history and fix errors.
What to Do If Your Payment Is Missing
If your August 28 payment doesn’t arrive:
- Check your bank account or mailbox.
- Wait 3 business days for potential delays.
- Log into ssa.gov to verify your payment status.
- Contact the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 or visit a local office.
Why This Matters
Social Security is a lifeline for millions, covering essentials like housing, food, and medical costs. Knowing your payment date and understanding policies like overpayment recovery or COLA increases helps you plan with confidence. If you’re born between the 21st and 31st, today’s your day to check for up to $5,108—or whatever amount you’re entitled to.
FAQs
Who gets the $5,108 payment today?
Beneficiaries born between the 21st and 31st who delayed retirement until 70 and had high earnings for 35 years.
How do I know if my payment arrived?
Check your bank account for a direct deposit or your mailbox for a paper check. Log into ssa.gov for payment details.
Why is my payment less than expected?
The SSA may be withholding up to 50% to recover past overpayments. Check your mySocialSecurity account for notices.
What if I don’t get my payment today?
Wait 3 business days, then contact your bank or the SSA at 1-800-772-1213.
When’s the next payment?
For SSI or pre-May 1997 beneficiaries, it’s September 1 (or August 29 due to Labor Day). Others follow the Wednesday schedule based on birth date.
How can I switch to direct deposit?
Sign up via your mySocialSecurity account at ssa.gov or call the SSA.
Stay on top of your Social Security by checking your account regularly and preparing for 2026’s COLA boost!