December SSI Payment Schedule Confirmed for 7.5 Million Recipients

Millions of Americans will receive two benefit payments in December. The Social Security Administration has confirmed its payment schedule for the final month of 2025. Around 7.5 million individuals rely on these Supplemental Security Income (SSI) disbursements.

This unique scheduling occurs due to the New Year’s Day holiday. Payments are shifted to the closest prior business day when the first falls on a weekend or holiday.

Dual SSI Payments Arrive in December

The first December SSI payment arrives on Monday, December 1. This is the standard payment for the month. A second payment will then be issued on Wednesday, December 31.

The December 31st payment is the January 2026 benefit. It is advanced because January 1 is a federal holiday. According to Reuters, this standard procedure ensures recipients have funds for the new year.

Eligible individuals can receive up to $967 monthly. Qualifying couples may get up to $1,450. Some states provide an additional payment on top of the federal amount.

Eligibility and Coordination with Other Benefits

SSI is a needs-based program for aged, blind, and disabled individuals. It assists those with limited income and resources. Eligibility is not based on prior work history or Social Security tax contributions.

Some people receive both SSI and other Social Security benefits. For these recipients, the SSI payment arrives December 1. Their retirement or disability payment follows on December 3.

Most retirement and SSDI beneficiaries receive payments on Wednesdays. The specific date depends on their birth date. The Social Security Administration’s full calendar is available on its official website.

The confirmed December SSI payment schedule provides financial certainty for millions. Recipients should plan their budgets around the two disbursement dates. This advance notice helps ensure essential needs are met through the holiday season.

Info at your fingertips

Why are there two SSI payments in December 2025?

The second payment is the January 2026 benefit. It is issued early because January 1 is a federal holiday. Payments are always moved to the preceding business day.

What is the maximum SSI payment for an individual?

An individual can receive up to $967 per month in 2025. The average payment is approximately $717. Eligible couples can receive a maximum of $1,450.

Who qualifies for Supplemental Security Income?

SSI is for people with very limited income and resources. It supports aged, blind, and disabled individuals. Eligibility is based on financial need, not work history.

How does the holiday schedule affect other Social Security payments?

Retirement and SSDI payments follow a different schedule based on birth dates. These payments are not advanced for January. They continue on their normal Wednesday cycle in December.

What if I receive both SSI and Social Security retirement?

You will get two separate payments in early December. The SSI payment arrives on the 1st. The retirement payment follows on the 3rd.