Social Security benefits December 2025 payments schedule Here’s the thing—December is always a busy month for Social Security recipients, but this year feels especially packed. The SSI payment is landing right at the start of the month, and millions of people are counting on it to manage rent, groceries, and year-end expenses. If you’re trying to figure out when your money arrives and whether you qualify for the full $967, let’s break it down in a clear, no-nonsense way.
What’s Happening With the December SSI Payment?
The Social Security Administration is sending out two SSI payments in December 2025. The first one hits December 1, and the second arrives early on December 31 because January 1 is a federal holiday. Think of it like getting your January check ahead of time—not a bonus, just the next month’s benefit paid early.
Around 7.5 million people will receive their checks during the first week of December as part of the regular Social Security payment cycle.
Why the December 31 Payment Matters
Normally, SSI shows up on the first day of each month. But when that date falls on a holiday, the payment moves to the previous business day. That’s why your January 2026 SSI will show up on December 31.
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Who Actually Qualifies for SSI?
SSI is meant for people who genuinely need the extra support—those who have low or no income, limited resources, and meet at least one of these conditions:
- Age 65 or older
- A qualifying disability
- Blindness
And here’s an important point: You don’t need to have paid Social Security taxes to qualify. SSI is needs-based, not contribution-based.
How Much Can You Receive in SSI?
The SSA reports that the average SSI payment is $717.84, but the maximum you can receive is:
- $967 per month for an individual
- $1,450 per month for a qualifying couple
Some states also add a small supplemental payment on top of the federal amount. If you’re unsure whether your state offers it, the SSA’s website lists the details.
When Will Other Social Security Payments Arrive in December?
If you get retirement, survivor benefits, or SSDI (not SSI), your payment date depends on your birth date:
- Born 1st–10th: Paid on December 10
- Born 11th–20th: Paid on December 17
- Born 21st–31st: Paid on December 24
What If You Receive Both SSI and Social Security?
You’ll see:
- SSI on December 1
- Social Security on December 3
This is normal and follows SSA’s combined-benefit payment rules.