May 2026: When Social Security and SSI Benefits Will Arrive in the U.S.

The SSA’s May 2026 payment calendar shows most retirees, disabled and survivor beneficiaries get paid on the second, third, or fourth Wednesday (May 13, 20, or 27, based on birth date). SSI payments go out on May 1. Beneficiaries who receive both Social Security and SSI were paid two days early, and long-time Social Security recipients (pre-1997 claimants) were paid on May 1 instead of a weekend-impacted date. Average monthly benefits cited: Retirement $2,026.41; Disability $1,493.20; Survivor $1,625.56; SSI $738.22. Payments can be made via direct deposit or the Direct Express card.