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Roughly 7.5 million Americans are expected to receive their first December benefits check during the opening week of the month. This marks the beginning of the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) final payment cycle of the year.
Because January 1, 2026 falls on a federal holiday, the SSA will issue two payments in December—one early, on December 31, to cover January’s benefits.
Who Receives a Payment on December 1?
December 1 Payment: SSI Beneficiaries
On Monday, December 1, individuals enrolled in the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program will receive their regular monthly payment.
This is the first of two SSI payments scheduled for December. The second payment, covering January 2026, will arrive one day early on December 31 due to the New Year’s holiday.
Why Two SSI Payments in December?
SSI benefits are normally sent on the first day of each month. When that date lands on a weekend or federal holiday—as with New Year’s Day—the payment is moved to the closest prior business day.
Who Qualifies for SSI Benefits?
SSI benefits are reserved for individuals who:
- Are 65 or older,
- Or have a qualifying disability,
- And have limited income and financial resources.
Unlike retirement or SSDI benefits, SSI eligibility is not tied to past Social Security tax contributions. It is strictly a needs-based assistance program.
How Much Money Do SSI Beneficiaries Receive?
Average Monthly SSI Amounts
According to SSA data, SSI recipients receive:
- Average monthly payment: $717.84
- Maximum monthly benefit for an individual: $967
- Maximum monthly benefit for couples: $1,450
Some states also provide optional supplemental payments, and details can be found through SSA resources.
December 2025 Social Security Payment Dates
For those receiving retirement, SSDI, or survivor benefits, payment dates depend on the beneficiary’s birthdate. Most payments will be issued on the following Wednesdays:
| Birthdate Range | Payment Date (December 2025) |
|---|---|
| 1st–10th | Wednesday, December 10 |
| 11th–20th | Wednesday, December 17 |
| 21st–31st | Wednesday, December 24 |
Receiving Both SSI and Social Security? Here’s Your Schedule
Those who receive both SSI and Social Security (retirement, SSDI, or survivor benefits) will receive:
- SSI payment: December 1
- Social Security payment: December 3
The SSA has already published its complete 2025 and 2026 payment calendars online.
How Social Security Sends Payments Today
As part of the agency’s move toward full digital disbursement, the SSA now issues nearly all payments electronically. As of September 30, the option to receive paper checks has been largely discontinued.
Accepted Electronic Payment Methods
1. Direct Deposit
Beneficiaries can link their bank account through the my Social Security portal to receive payments directly.
2. Direct Express Debit Card
Individuals without a bank account may choose to have their benefits loaded onto the Direct Express Card, a secure debit card designed for federal payments.
The SSA’s December 2025 payment cycle brings essential updates for millions of Americans, especially SSI recipients who will receive two payments this month.
With revised schedules, early deposits, and the agency’s shift toward digital payments, understanding when and how benefits arrive is crucial for proper financial planning.
Whether receiving SSI, retirement, SSDI, or survivor benefits, staying informed about the December schedule ensures beneficiaries know exactly when their payments will land.
FAQs
Why are SSI recipients getting two payments in December 2025?
Because January 1, 2026 is a federal holiday, the SSA moves the January payment to the nearest previous business day—December 31.
How much can an SSI beneficiary receive each month?
The maximum SSI benefit is $967 for individuals and $1,450 for couples, while the average payment is $717.84.
Can I still receive Social Security benefits by mail?
In most cases, no. The SSA now issues nearly all payments through direct deposit or the Direct Express debit card.