December 2025 brings an important shift for Social Security recipients as many Americans will receive a $967 Supplemental Security Income (SSI) deposit on December 1. The month’s payout schedule also includes other regular Social Security deposits, with some beneficiaries set for a rare “double payment” due to the holiday calendar. Understanding the eligibility criteria, payment dates, and how to confirm your status can help you plan your finances more effectively as the year ends.
Will You Get the $967 SSI Deposit?
The $967 payment is specifically the federal maximum SSI benefit for an individual in 2025. To receive this deposit, you must be eligible for SSI, which is a needs-based program supporting those aged 65 or older, people with disabilities, or individuals with very limited income and resources. Your assets must be below $2,000 if single (or $3,000 for couples). SSI is not based on work history, making it different from Social Security retirement or disability benefits. Couples who qualify can get up to $1,450, while some states provide supplemental payments, raising the total benefit for residents in certain locations.
December 2025 Social Security and SSI Payment Schedule
| Payment Type |
Deposit Date |
Who Receives It |
Amount |
| SSI (for December) |
December 1, 2025 |
Eligible SSI Recipients |
Up to $967 |
| Social Security |
December 3, 2025 |
Dual SSI/SS Beneficiaries, Pre-May 1997 Recipients |
Varies |
| Social Security |
December 10, 2025 |
Birthdays 1st–10th of any month |
Varies |
| Social Security |
December 17, 2025 |
Birthdays 11th–20th of any month |
Varies |
| Social Security |
December 24, 2025 |
Birthdays 21st–31st of any month |
Varies |
| SSI (for January) |
December 31, 2025 |
All SSI Recipients |
Up to $967 |
Eligibility Criteria for SSI in 2025
- Be 65 or older, blind, or have a qualifying disability.
- Meet strict income and resource criteria, with limits set at $2,000 in assets for individuals and $3,000 for couples.
- Reside in the U.S. or certain territories.
- Be a U.S. citizen or qualifying noncitizen.
SSI amounts may be reduced if the recipient has other income or receives in-kind support such as food and shelter from others. Some states enhance the federal base SSI with additional payments.
How to Check Your Payment Status and Requirements
- Check your My Social Security account online for posted payment information and histories.
- Confirm with your bank or Direct Express card for the deposit, which may take up to three business days.
- Contact the Social Security Administration directly if a payment is late or missing.
- Review SSA notification letters for updates on benefits and payments.
Applicants and recipients are strongly advised to update personal information with SSA promptly to avoid missed or delayed payments.
What If You Receive Both SSI and Social Security Benefits?
Recipients of both SSI and Social Security (retirement or disability) often see their payments coordinated. For December, these dual beneficiaries will receive their SSI payment on December 1 and their Social Security benefit on December 3, according to the payment cycle for those enrolled prior to May 1997 or who get both benefits. Others will get Social Security payments according to their birthdate-based schedule within the month.
Managing Double Payments in December
While seeing two SSI deposits in December can feel like a windfall, the second payment covers January’s allocation. Smart financial planning is crucial so that funds last until the next scheduled payment on February 1, 2026. Consider automating essential bill payments and budgeting for extra winter or holiday expenses accordingly.
Additional State Payments and Cost-of-Living Adjustments
Some states provide an additional supplement to the federal SSI benefit, so your total deposit may exceed $967 depending on where you live. Cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) are also factored into these payments annually, which can raise the maximum benefit amount from year to year as announced by the SSA.
December 2025’s Social Security payment schedule may be unique, but by understanding the specific dates, eligibility rules, and account management tips, you can ensure timely access to your entitled benefits and prepare for a stable start to the new year.
