For millions of beneficiaries in the US, the start of December 2025 will be momentous. About 7.5 million people will receive benefit checks in the first week of the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) December payment schedule. Due to the January 2026 holiday and the fact that some payments will be sent in advance in December, this month is also important because it marks the year’s last payments. The SSA’s arrangement guarantees that nobody experiences the inconvenience of delays.
Who will receive payments on December 1st?
The first day of December is a memorable day for SSI recipients. On Monday, December 1st, all SSI recipients will receive their regular monthly payment. Interestingly, there will be two SSI payments in December: one on December 1st and another on December 31st. Due to the New Year’s Day holiday, the second payment—which is actually for January 2026—is being processed one day ahead of schedule.
SSI payments are normally sent on the first of each month; however, if the first falls on a federal holiday, the SSA will transfer the payment to the closest working day.
Who receives SSI benefits?
The SSI program is for people with low or almost no income and limited resources. This benefit is primarily provided to:
- Individuals age 65 or older
- Individuals with physical or mental disabilities
- Individuals with minimal financial resources
The unique feature of SSI is that you don’t need to pay Social Security taxes to receive it. It’s a completely need-based program, not a contribution-based one.
How much do SSI beneficiaries receive?
According to the Social Security Administration, the monthly average for the SSI beneficiaries is $717.84. However, the sum is based upon the status and qualification of the applicant. The maximum is $967/month for a single person and $1,450/month for a couple in the case of eligibility.
State Supplement Payments are additional payment benefits provided by some states on top of the SSI program. More about this can be found on the SSA website.
When will other Social Security payments be received in December 2025?
In addition to SSI, payments for those receiving Retirement, SSDI (Disability), and Survivor Benefits are determined based on their birthday. Payments in December 2025 will be sent as follows:
- Birthdays between 1 and 10: Wednesday, December 10
- Birthdays between 11 and 20: Wednesday, December 17
- Birthdays between 21 and 31: Wednesday, December 24
This way, the SSA ensures that every category of beneficiary receives their payments on time.
When will those receiving both SSI and Social Security benefits receive payments?
If you receive SSI as well as retirement, SSDI, or survivor benefits, your payment will be as follows:
- SSI payment: December 1
- Social Security payment: December 3
This eliminates confusion between the two payments and ensures funds reach your account on time.
How are Social Security payments sent?
The SSA is working toward a fully digital payment system. In most cases, the option to send paper checks has been eliminated as of September 30. These days, there are two main ways to make payments:
1. Direct Deposit
Beneficiaries can receive payments directly into their bank accounts by providing their bank details to the SSA. This information can be entered on the “my Social Security” online portal.
2. Direct Express Debit Card
For those without a bank account, the SSA offers the option of a Direct Express Card. Government payments are directly loaded onto this card, which beneficiaries can use like a regular debit card.
Conclusion: December Payments Will Be Crucial
For Social Security recipients, December 2025 is a critical month. In addition to the two payments that SSI recipients will receive, retirees and SSDI recipients will also receive timely payments based on their dates of birth. No beneficiary will experience any delays or inconveniences thanks to the SSA’s streamlined and digital process.
This December schedule contains important information for Social Security beneficiaries.
FAQs
Q1. Who will receive the Social Security payment on December 1, 2025?
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) beneficiaries will receive their monthly payment on December 1.
Q2. Why are there two SSI payments in December 2025?
Because January 1, 2026 is a federal holiday, the January SSI payment is sent early on December 31.
Q3. How much can SSI beneficiaries receive per month?
An individual can receive up to $967, and eligible couples can receive up to $1,450 per month.
Q4. How are Social Security payments delivered?
Payments are sent electronically via direct deposit or the Direct Express debit card.
Q5. When will retirees and SSDI beneficiaries receive their December payments?
Depending on birth dates, payments will be sent on December 10, 17, or 24.
