If you live in Alabama and rely on Social Security—whether it’s SSI, SSDI, retirement, or survivor benefits—it’s essential to know when your 2025 payments are coming. Beyond just knowing the dates, knowing the changes in benefit amounts, payment structure, and how to budget around them can help you avoid unnecessary stress.
This article walks you through everything you need to know as an Alabama resident: payment schedules, COLA updates, state-specific rules, and helpful tools to manage your benefits with confidence.
Overview
Here’s a snapshot of what 2025 looks like for Alabama Social Security recipients:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| SSI Double Payments | May 1 & 30, Aug 1 & 29, Oct 1 & 31, Dec 1 & 31 |
| Retirement/SSDI Payments | 2nd, 3rd, or 4th Wednesday, based on birthday |
| 2025 COLA | 2.5% increase |
| Avg Retirement Benefit | $1,976/month |
| Max SSI Individual | $967/month |
| Max SSI Couple | $1,450/month |
| SSA Payment Calendar | ssa.gov/pubs/calendar.htm |
No matter where you live—Birmingham, Mobile, Huntsville, or beyond—these details apply to every eligible resident of Alabama.
Schedule
Social Security benefits are paid monthly, but the exact date depends on what type of benefit you get and sometimes your birthday.
Retirement, SSDI, and Survivor Benefits:
- Birthdays on the 1st–10th: Paid 2nd Wednesday of the month
- Birthdays on the 11th–20th: Paid 3rd Wednesday
- Birthdays on the 21st–31st: Paid 4th Wednesday
SSI Payments:
- Normally issued on the 1st of the month
- If the 1st falls on a weekend or holiday, payment comes on the last business day before it
That’s why some months in 2025 include two SSI payments—these are not bonuses but early payments for the next month.
SSI Double Dates
If you receive SSI, watch for these four months with double payments:
| Month | Payment Dates |
|---|---|
| May | May 1 and May 30 |
| August | August 1 and August 29 |
| October | October 1 and October 31 |
| December | December 1 and December 31 |
These early payments are meant to cover the following month, so plan accordingly—there won’t be another check on the 1st of the next month.
May Example
To give you a clear idea of how this works, here’s the May 2025 schedule:
- May 1: SSI for May
- May 14: SSDI/retirement if born 1st–10th
- May 21: SSDI/retirement if born 11th–20th
- May 28: SSDI/retirement if born 21st–31st
- May 30: SSI for June (paid early due to June 1 being a Sunday)
COLA
The 2025 Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) will increase Social Security benefits by 2.5%. This bump is designed to help offset rising living costs, especially essentials like food, rent, and medical care.
- Average retirement benefit: $1,976/month
- Max SSI for individuals: $967
- Max SSI for couples: $1,450
Even though inflation has slowed compared to past years, the 2.5% boost helps protect purchasing power for all recipients.
Tax Info
One benefit of living in Alabama? Social Security income is not taxed at the state level. That’s a win for retirees and disabled residents.
However, federal taxes may still apply:
- If you’re single and earn more than $25,000 in combined income
- If you’re married and earn over $32,000
Be sure to keep track of all income sources if you’re close to these thresholds.
Tips
Here’s how you can stay ahead of your 2025 payments and avoid surprises:
- Use Direct Deposit
It’s the safest and fastest way to receive payments. Most Alabama banks deposit funds by 9 a.m. on payday. - Sign Up for My Social Security
Create an account at ssa.gov/myaccount to manage your benefits, change your banking details, and see your payment history anytime. - Budget by Payment Date
Don’t just know when your check comes—plan your bills around it. This helps avoid overdraft fees or late payments. - Avoid Scams
The SSA will never call asking for your personal information or demand payments. If someone does, hang up and report it.
Social Security benefits are more than just a monthly deposit—they’re a lifeline. By staying informed and planning ahead, Alabama residents can navigate 2025 with a little less worry and a lot more clarity.
FAQs
When will I get paid if born on May 9?
Your benefit will arrive on May 14, 2025.
Why do I get two SSI payments in May?
One is for May, and one is an early June payment.
Does Alabama tax Social Security?
No. Alabama does not tax Social Security income.
What’s the COLA increase for 2025?
Benefits will rise by 2.5% starting January 2025.
Where can I check my payment schedule?
Visit ssa.gov or use your My Social Security account.
