Starting in April 2025, millions of Social Security beneficiaries will see an increase in their monthly payments due to legislative changes that impact both payment amounts and eligibility criteria. These updates could mean extra money in your pocket, but understanding how they work is key to making the most of your benefits.
Here’s everything you need to know about these changes, including eligibility requirements, payment increases, and when to expect your payments.
Table of Contents
Eligibility requirements
To qualify for Social Security retirement benefits in April 2025, you must meet two key requirements:
- minimum age – you must be at least 62 years old to begin receiving payments
- work history – you need at least 10 years of work (or 40 credits) to qualify. These years do not have to be consecutive, but they must meet Social Security’s guidelines
While you can start collecting benefits at 62, the longer you wait, the higher your monthly payments will be. If you delay retirement until age 70, you can maximize your Social Security income.
Increase
A major reason for the increase in Social Security payments is the Social Security Fairness Act, which eliminates two provisions that previously reduced benefits for certain retirees:
- windfall elimination provision (WEP) – previously reduced Social Security payments for those who also received pensions from employers not covered by Social Security
- government pension offset (GPO) – previously reduced spousal or survivor benefits for those who received a government pension
With these provisions removed, more than 3.2 million people will see an increase in their payments. The average increase is expected to be $360 per month, but in some cases, beneficiaries may receive up to $1,000 extra per month.
payment dates
Social Security payments are scheduled based on your birth date:
| Birth Date Range | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| 1st – 10th | Second Wednesday of the month |
| 11th – 20th | Third Wednesday of the month |
| 21st – 30th | Fourth Wednesday of the month |
If you are already receiving Social Security, your payment date will remain the same. However, if you are applying for benefits for the first time in 2025, make sure you know when to expect your payments.
If you have questions about your Social Security payments, eligibility, or how these changes affect you, contact the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 for assistance.
FAQs
Who qualifies for Social Security in April 2025?
Anyone aged 62 or older with at least 10 years of work history.
Why are Social Security payments increasing?
The Social Security Fairness Act removed WEP and GPO reductions.
How much will payments increase?
On average, benefits will rise by $360, with some seeing up to $1,000 extra.
When will I receive my Social Security payment?
It depends on your birth date; payments are on Wednesdays.
How can I contact the SSA for more information?
Call 1-800-772-1213 for assistance with Social Security benefits.
