Around 7.5 million Americans are scheduled to receive their benefit checks in the first week of December 2025. This marks the beginning of the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) payment cycle for the final month of the year. Since January 1, 2026, falls on a federal holiday, the SSA will issue two payments in December, moving the January benefit to December 31, 2025.
This shift ensures recipients continue receiving their funds without interruption during the holiday season.
SSI Payments in December 2025
First SSI Payment: December 1
On Monday, December 1, eligible Americans enrolled in the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program will receive their regular monthly benefit. This payment begins the two-part SSI schedule unique to the month of December.
Second SSI Payment: December 31 (January 2026 Advance)
Because New Year’s Day is a federal holiday, the January 2026 SSI payment will be deposited one day early, on Wednesday, December 31, 2025. SSI payments are typically released on the first of every month, but federal holidays trigger early disbursement.
Who Can Receive SSI Benefits?
Eligibility Requirements
SSI benefits are intended for individuals who:
- Have little to no income or financial resources
- Are 65 or older, OR
- Have a qualifying disability
Unlike other Social Security programs, SSI eligibility does not depend on prior work history or Social Security tax contributions. It is strictly a needs-based program.
SSI Payment Amounts for 2025
According to SSA data:
- The average SSI monthly benefit is $717.84
- The maximum individual payment is $967 per month
- Eligible couples can receive up to $1,450 per month
Some states also offer a state-funded SSI supplement, which provides additional financial support. Details about these state-specific payments can be found on the SSA’s official website.
December 2025 Social Security Payment Dates (Retirement, SSDI & Survivor Benefits)
Most beneficiaries of Social Security retirement, SSDI, and survivor benefits will receive their December payments according to the SSA’s birth-date-based Wednesday schedule:
Payment Schedule for December 2025
- Born 1st–10th: Paid on Wednesday, December 10
- Born 11th–20th: Paid on Wednesday, December 17
- Born 21st–31st: Paid on Wednesday, December 24
This staggered distribution ensures smooth and timely benefit delivery during one of the busiest financial months of the year.
Receiving Both SSI and Social Security? Here’s Your December Schedule
Individuals who qualify for both SSI and Social Security (retirement, SSDI, or survivor benefits) will receive:
- SSI Payment: December 1
- Social Security Payment: December 3
This ensures dual beneficiaries receive all scheduled support without delays.
You can view the complete 2025 and 2026 Social Security payment calendars directly on the SSA’s official website.
Many Canadian parents are preparing for important updates as the Canada Child Benefit to Rise in 2026 — What Families Need to Know becomes a major topic nationwide. The increase is expected to offer stronger financial support to households coping with rising living costs. Families should understand how the higher monthly payments will be calculated, who qualifies for the enhanced amounts, and when the new rates will take effect, ensuring they receive every dollar they’re entitled to.
Conclusion
The December 2025 Social Security and SSI payment schedule includes several adjustments due to the upcoming New Year’s holiday. With two SSI payments, a shifted Social Security cycle, and clear eligibility rules, beneficiaries can plan their finances with confidence. Staying informed about payment dates and monthly amounts helps individuals and families better manage essential expenses during the holiday season and into 2026.
FAQs
1. Why are there two SSI payments in December 2025?
Because New Year’s Day is a federal holiday, the January SSI payment is issued early on December 31.
2. How much can SSI recipients get each month?
Individuals can receive up to $967, while qualifying couples may receive up to $1,450 monthly.
3. When will my Social Security retirement or SSDI payment arrive in December?
Your deposit date depends on your birth date and will fall on December 10, 17, or 24.