In these October days, many retirees and people with disabilities in the United States breathe a sigh of relief at the thought of their next Social Security payment. This October 15, 2025, the third Wednesday of the month, is the date for those born between the 11th and 20th of any month.
If this is your case, or that of a loved one, get ready: the deposit or check should arrive soon, bringing with up to $5,108 for those who qualify for the top limit valid up to December 2025.
Government shutdown: payments remain on schedule for October
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has maintained its payment schedule with the precision of a Swiss watch, adapting to the changes of the year. For 2025, the scheme follows the same pattern we know well: beneficiaries receive their funds in the second, third, or fourth week of the month, depending on their date of birth.
Thus, on October 8th it was the turn of those born between the 1st and 10th; on the 15th, it was the turn of those born between the 11th and 20th; and on October 22nd, it was the turn of those born between the 21st and 31st.
A surprise for SSI recipients
But not everything is routine in October. This month brings a surprise for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients: two payments instead of one. The first arrived on October 1st, as usual, since it fell on a Wednesday. And the second, scheduled for the 31st, comes earlier than the November payment because that month’s 1st falls on a Saturday.
It’s a calendar detail that the SSA adjusts so that no one is left waiting, especially those who depend on these funds to cover basic needs like food, medicine, or rent.
Maximum Social Security benefits: What about the COLA increase
Let’s talk a little about what this payment represents. In 2025, with a 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), average checks will have increased slightly, reaching about $1,920 per month for retirees, according to SSA estimates. It’s not a fortune, but for many, it’s the centerpiece that sustains dignity in old age.
And speaking of upcoming adjustments, there are developments on the horizon that could affect long-term planning. The announcement of the 2026 COLA increase, which was expected this October 15, has been delayed due to the partial federal government shutdown.
This budget impasse has stalled the release of the September Consumer Price Index (CPI-W) report, which is essential for calculating the adjustment, as the COLA is based on data from the third quarter of the year.
When will the COLA be announced?
According to the SSA, the new announcement date will be October 24, synchronized with the pending CPI-W release. This isn’t the first time something like this has happened; in 2013, a similar shutdown delayed the announcement until the end of the month. This is because President Donald Trump won’t step back on his budget proposal (with cuts on Social Security and other benefits), while the Congress is trying to make him do it again with less cuts.
At that time, payments were adjusted retroactively without losing a cent. In the meantime, experts advise against panic: preliminary projections suggest a modest increase, possibly around 2%, influenced by controlled inflation, although policies such as trade tariffs could provide an extra boost.
How to contact the SSA in case of losing payments
Of course, not everything always goes perfectly. If you live in a rural area where mail takes longer, or if you opted for a physical check instead of direct deposit, the SSA recommends waiting up to three extra business days before worrying. You can check your status on mySocialSecurity.gov, a user-friendly site that lets you view your payment history with just a few clicks.
And if something goes wrong, the customer service number, 1-800-772-1213, is ready to help Monday through Friday. A practical tip: If you haven’t already, update your banking information to avoid delays. In a world where everything moves at lightning speed, these payments are a reminder that simplicity is sometimes the most valuable.