The Social Security Administration (SSA) will make advance payments on December 1, 2025, for approximately 7.5 million beneficiaries of the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program. This early disbursement is due to January 1, 2026, being a federal holiday, causing the payment for January to be issued on December 31, 2025. This initiative aims to support individuals with low income, those aged over 65, and people living with disabilities.
The average monthly benefit for SSI recipients is $717.84, though this amount can vary based on individual or couple claims. The anticipated increase of 2.8% for SSI payments, effective with the first payment of 2026, reflects the recent Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA). This adjustment will also apply to other Social Security benefits, including retirement, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), and survivor benefits.
Details of December Payments
On December 1, beneficiaries will receive their SSI payment, while those who also qualify for retirement, SSDI, or survivor benefits will see a second payment on December 3, 2025. The disbursement timeline for the remainder of the month will depend on birth dates. Individuals born between the 1st and 10th of the month will receive their payments on December 10, while those born from the 11th to the 20th will be paid on December 17. Lastly, payments for individuals born from the 21st to the 31st will occur on December 24.
Importantly, beneficiaries who have received benefits since before May 1997 will not follow this schedule; instead, they will receive their payments on December 3.
Payment Methods and Options
Beneficiaries have several options for receiving their payments. While paper checks remain available in limited cases, most recipients will utilize direct deposit or a special debit card known as the Direct Express card. These options provide convenient access to funds, with direct deposits being set up through the SSA’s online portal, “My Social Security.”
For those seeking further information, the SSA provides an official payment calendar detailing all payment dates. This proactive approach aims to assist millions of Americans during the upcoming holiday season by ensuring timely access to essential financial support.
The SSA’s commitment to serving those in need through programs like SSI underscores its critical role in the social safety net, offering financial assistance to some of the most vulnerable populations across the United States.
