December 2025 Social Security Payment Schedule: Complete SSI and SSDI Dates
Social Security payments for December 2025 will proceed as scheduled following a government shutdown that lasted from early October to mid-November. This month, beneficiaries will receive their payments before a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) takes effect in January 2026.
Payment Schedule for December 2025
The Social Security Administration (SSA) will maintain its usual Wednesday payment cycle. Payments for December will begin on December 10 for those born between the 1st and 10th of the month. Below is the complete payment schedule:
- December 1: SSI payment
- December 3: Social Security check for those who began receiving benefits before May 1997
- December 10: Birthdays from the 1st to 10th
- December 17: Birthdays from the 11th to 20th
- December 24: Birthdays from the 21st to 31st
- December 31: Early January 2026 SSI payment
In December, recipients will also receive an additional payment for January 2026 due to the New Year’s holiday, which falls on January 1.
Shift to Electronic Payments
This year marks a significant transition as the SSA has phased out paper checks. Since October, all benefits will be distributed exclusively via direct deposit or a Direct Express debit card. This change was implemented following a 2019 executive order by former President Donald Trump.
Upcoming SSI Payment Dates
The following are the scheduled SSI payment dates for early 2026:
- January 30, 2026: February SSI payment
- February 27, 2026: March SSI payment
- April 1, 2026: April SSI payment
- May 1, 2026: May SSI payment
- June 1, 2026: June SSI payment
- July 1, 2026: July SSI payment
- July 31, 2026: August SSI payment
COLA Increase in 2026
All SSI recipients will see a 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment reflected in early January 2026 payments. This adjustment will also serve as the first check for the new year.
Eligibility and Application Process
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) provides crucial support for individuals with limited income, including the elderly and those with disabilities. To qualify, adults typically must have monthly earnings below $2,019. Applications can be initiated online or by contacting the SSA directly at 1-800-772-1213.
What to Do If Payments Are Late?
While nearly 99% of recipients receive their benefits on time through electronic means, delays can occasionally occur. If your payment is late, the SSA advises waiting three extra mailing days before reaching out for assistance.
Preparing for Social Security Benefits
Individuals can start receiving Social Security benefits as early as age 62, but benefits will be reduced for early filing. The standard full retirement age continues to increase gradually. Those born in 1960 or later will reach a full retirement age of 67.
In summary, the December 2025 Social Security payment schedule will ensure timely distribution of benefits, including an early payment for January 2026. Beneficiaries should make note of the transition to electronic payments and be aware of the upcoming COLA increase.
