As of January 2025, the average Social Security payment for retirees is approximately $1,978 per month. However, if you are married, you or your spouse may be eligible for additional spousal benefits. This can provide financial relief, particularly for individuals with lower lifetime earnings and savings.
How Much Can Married Couples Receive?
Spouses of retired workers can receive an average of $931.28 per month in spousal benefits. When combined with the retiree’s average payment of $1,978, the total household Social Security income could be around $2,919 per month. However, actual payments vary based on several factors, including past earnings, filing age, and work history.
Who Qualifies for the February 26 Social Security Payment?
Social Security distributes payments based on beneficiaries’ birthdates. To receive a Social Security payment on February 26, 2025, you must meet the following criteria:
- You were born between the 21st and 31st of any month.
- You have already filed for benefits and received SSA approval.
- Your Social Security benefits are based on your own work record or a spouse’s record.
Who Won’t Receive This Payment on February 26?
- If your birthdate falls between the 1st and 20th of the month, your payment was already scheduled for earlier in February.
- If you started receiving Social Security benefits before May 1997, your next payment will be on March 3, 2025.
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients who also receive retirement benefits will get their payment on March 3, 2025.
What About Married Couples Receiving SSDI?
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) beneficiaries who qualify based on disability rather than retirement may also receive payments on February 26, provided they meet the birthday requirement. On average, SSDI recipients receive about $2,011 per month.
Additional Social Security Payments in March 2025
For married couples expecting Social Security payments in March, the key payment dates are:
- March 3 – For those who have been receiving benefits since before May 1997.
- March 12 – For beneficiaries born between the 1st and 10th of the month.
- March 19 – For beneficiaries born between the 11th and 20th of the month.
- March 26 – For beneficiaries born between the 21st and 31st of the month.
Social Security for Married Couples with Children
If a married couple receiving Social Security also has eligible dependent children, their household income may be even higher. Eligible children can receive an average of $919 per month in benefits.
Planning for Social Security at Age 62
If you are approaching retirement age, you can file for Social Security benefits as early as four months before you want to start receiving payments. However, keep in mind that filing at age 62 results in reduced monthly payments compared to waiting until full retirement age.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can my spouse receive benefits even if they never worked?
Yes. If your spouse did not work or has limited earnings, they can still qualify for spousal benefits based on your work record, up to 50% of your full retirement benefit.
2. Will my payment date change if I receive both SSI and Social Security?
Yes. If you receive both SSI and Social Security retirement benefits, your payment is usually scheduled for March 3, 2025.
3. How can I check my payment status?
You can track your Social Security payments by logging into your mySocialSecurity account at ssa.gov or calling the SSA at 1-800-772-1213.
4. Can I delay my Social Security payments to get a higher amount?
Yes. If you delay claiming benefits past your full retirement age, your monthly benefit increases until you reach age 70.
5. Will my benefits be taxed?
It depends on your total income. If your combined income (Social Security + other sources) exceeds certain thresholds, you may be subject to federal income taxes on a portion of your benefits.
Understanding the Social Security payment schedule can help you plan your finances more effectively. If you have questions about your specific situation, consider consulting the Social Security Administration (SSA) for personalized guidance.