Beginning in April 2025, millions of Americans receiving Social Security benefits will notice an increase in their monthly payments. This is due to recent legislative changes aimed at boosting retirement income and expanding eligibility. Understanding these updates is essential to ensure you receive the full benefits you’re entitled to.
Here’s a breakdown of the key changes, including who qualifies, how much payments are increasing, and when to expect your money.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for Social Security retirement benefits in April 2025, you must meet two basic conditions:
- Minimum Age – You must be at least 62 years old to start receiving retirement benefits.
- Work Credits – You need a minimum of 40 credits, which usually equals about 10 years of work. These years don’t need to be consecutive, but they must meet Social Security’s qualifying standards.
Although you can begin claiming benefits at 62, delaying your retirement will increase your monthly payments. Waiting until age 70 allows you to receive the maximum benefit.
Why Payments Are Going Up
The increase in Social Security payments is largely due to the Social Security Fairness Act, which has eliminated two provisions that previously reduced benefits for certain groups:
- Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) – This used to lower Social Security payments for those who also received pensions from jobs not covered by Social Security.
- Government Pension Offset (GPO) – This reduced spousal or survivor benefits for those who had a government pension.
Now that these rules have been removed, more than 3.2 million beneficiaries will see their monthly payments rise. On average, payments will go up by $360, and in some cases, recipients could receive as much as $1,000 more per month.
When You’ll Get Paid
Social Security benefits are distributed based on your birth date. Here’s the current payment schedule:
| Birth Date Range | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| 1st – 10th | Second Wednesday of the month |
| 11th – 20th | Third Wednesday of the month |
| 21st – 31st | Fourth Wednesday of the month |
If you’re already receiving benefits, your payment date won’t change. However, if you’re applying for Social Security for the first time in 2025, be sure to mark your calendar based on your birth date.
Questions or Need Help?
If you have questions about your eligibility, payment amount, or how these changes might affect you, reach out to the Social Security Administration directly by calling 1-800-772-1213.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who qualifies for Social Security in April 2025?
Anyone 62 or older with at least 10 years of qualifying work history.
What’s causing the payment increase?
The Social Security Fairness Act eliminated WEP and GPO, which previously reduced benefits.
How much will benefits increase?
Most will see an average increase of $360, though some could receive up to $1,000 more each month.
When will I get my payment?
Payments are issued based on your birth date, usually on a Wednesday.
How do I contact the SSA?
Call 1-800-772-1213 for help with your benefits or eligibility questions.
