Hailey
Millions of Americans will receive Social Security retirement and SSDI payments on the standard Wednesday rotation in November.
The maximum monthly benefit at full retirement age (FRA) in 2025 is $4,018, and while fewer people reach that amount, that’s the ceiling many headlines refer to.
The average retired-worker benefit is about $2,008 and the typical SSDI payment is around $1,580.
Because November 1 falls on a Saturday, the SSI payment for November is issued early on October 31, so there is no separate deposit in November.
The exact payment dates For November 2025
Social Security payments arrive on a Wednesday schedule tied to your birth date, except for some long-time beneficiaries:
- Nov 3 (Mon): For those who started benefits before May 1997 or receive both Social Security and SSI.
- Nov 12 (Wed): For birth dates 1st–10th.
- Nov 19 (Wed): For birth dates 11th–20th.
- Nov 26 (Wed): For birth dates 21st–31st.
- SSI (federal): Paid early on Oct 31 (Fri) for the November payment.
If your payment arrives by mail rather than direct deposit, allow three extra days after the listed date before contacting the agency.
How much to expect in November
- Maximum retirement benefit at FRA in 2025: $4,018.
- Maximum at age 70 in 2025: approximately $5,108 (for those who delayed benefits and had high earnings).
- Average retired-worker benefit: about $2,008.
- Average SSDI benefit: around $1,580.
- SSI Federal Benefit Rate for 2025: up to $967 (individual) / $1,450 (couple).
Quick reference — November 2025
| Program / Group | Who Gets Paid | Payment Date | Typical Amounts (2025) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Social Security (retirement/SSDI) – pre-May 1997 | Started benefits before May 1997 or receive both SS & SSI | Nov 3 | Up to $4,018 at FRA; average ~$2,008; SSDI ~$1,580 |
| Social Security – birthdays 1–10 | Retirement/SSDI recipients with DOB 1st–10th | Nov 12 | Same range as above |
| Social Security – birthdays 11–20 | Recipients with DOB 11th–20th | Nov 19 | Same range |
| Social Security – birthdays 21–31 | Recipients with DOB 21st–31st | Nov 26 | Same range |
| SSI federal benefit | Eligible individuals & couples | Oct 31 (early for Nov) | $967 individual / $1,450 couple |
Why the “up to $4,000” headline
The headline “up to $4,000” refers to the 2025 FRA maximum benefit of $4,018. Very few beneficiaries reach that cap because it requires very high lifetime earnings.
Most people will receive amounts based on their personal earnings history and the age at which they claim benefits, which explains why many payments are lower than the maximum.
Payment method and important tips
Most beneficiaries get payments via direct deposit or the Direct Express card. If you receive a mailed check, be aware it may take extra days.
The agency advises you to wait about three mailing days after the listed payment date before lodging an inquiry. Make sure your banking details are current and correct to avoid delays.
In November 2025, Social Security retirement and SSDI payments will arrive on Nov 3, Nov 12, Nov 19, and Nov 26, depending on your eligibility and birth date.
SSI payments were issued early on Oct 31 because November 1 falls on a Saturday.
While some headlines quote “up to $4,018”, most recipients will see amounts based on their individual record—around the average of $2,008 for retirees and $1,580 for SSDI.
Use the schedule above to plan ahead, confirm your payment method, and ensure your details are up to date.
FAQs
Why didn’t I get an SSI payment in November?
Because November 1 is a Saturday, the SSI payment for November was issued early on October 31. That early deposit counts as your November payment.
If my birthday is on the 9th, when will my Social Security arrive?
If your birthday falls on the 9th, you’ll receive your Social Security payment on the second Wednesday of the month, which is Nov 12, 2025.
Who actually receives the maximum $4,018?
Those who receive the maximum benefit of $4,018 in 2025 are very few: it requires very high lifetime earnings (35 years at or near the taxable maximum), full retirement age eligibility, and claiming at the right time. Most recipients will receive less based on their earnings and claim age.