Social Security Targets Billions in Overpaid Benefits with Increased Withholding

In May 2025, Social Security payments are being issued according to the recipients' birth dates, with beneficiaries born between the 11th and 20th receiving payments on May 21. This month features an unusual third payment cycle due to the calendar alignment, causing some recipients, especially those receiving both Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI), to receive three separate deposits. The average monthly Social Security retirement benefit is approximately $1,976, with maximum amounts increasing if benefits are claimed later, and all payments include a 3.2% cost-of-living adjustment. Payments are distributed directly to registered bank accounts or Direct Express cards, and delays may occur if banking information has recently changed. Recipients are advised to check their payment schedules through the SSA's online portal and contact the agency if payments are delayed. Additionally, the Social Security Administration has recently updated its policy on recovering overpayments, increasing the withholding rate from 10% to up to 50% of benefits, which may impact vulnerable beneficiaries.