Millions of Americans receiving Social Security benefits are scheduled to receive their last monthly payments this week under the Social Security Administration’s May 2026 payment plan.
For the majority of beneficiaries, the Agency follows a graded “three middle” system with payment dates determined by the recipient’s date of birth.
Who will receive Social Security payments on Wednesday, May 13?
According to the SSA payment calendar, recipients born between the 1st and 10th of each month are scheduled to receive Social Security payments on Wednesday, May 13, 2026.
The remaining May payment schedule is as follows:
Born between 1-10: Wednesday, May 13
Born between 11-20: Wednesday, May 20
Born between 21-31: Wednesday, May 27
For recipients who apply for benefits through another person’s work records, such as spouses or dependents, SSA uses the date of birth of the worker whose earnings qualify them for benefits.
Why some Americans have already received their May payments
Individuals who began receiving Social Security benefits before May 1997 usually receive their pay on the third day of each month. However, as 3 May fell on a Sunday this year, these payments were issued earlier on Friday 1 May.
Americans who receive both Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) also received both payments on May 1 due to the weekend adjustment.
SSI payments are generally sent on the first business day of each month.
Average monthly Social Security benefits in 2026
SSA data shows the average monthly benefits paid to recipients:
Retired workers: $2,081.16
Disabled workers: $1,634.70
Surviving beneficiaries: $1,625.56
Social Security remains a key source of income for retirees, people with disabilities, and families across the United States.
The main types of social security benefits
The SSA administers several beneficial programs designed to support eligible Americans in a variety of circumstances.
Monthly payments for individuals age 62 or older who have worked and paid Social Security taxes for at least 10 years.
Monthly assistance for disabled or blind persons who have a sufficient work history.
Benefits for eligible family members of deceased workers, including spouses, ex-spouses, children and dependent parents.
Payments available to certain relatives of workers receiving pension or disability benefits.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Financial assistance for low-income individuals who are elderly, blind or disabled.
Health insurance for people age 65 and older, some people with disabilities, and end-stage renal disease patients.
How Americans Can Manage Social Security Benefits
Recipients can manage benefits online through the SSA’s “my Social Security” portal, which allows users to:
-Tracking beneficial applications
– Updating personal data
-Change your direct deposit details
-Download your benefits verification letters
SSA encourages recipients to contact the agency if a payment is more than three days late.
Read also | SSI Payment Plan: When Will You Get Your May 2026 Check?
