SSA Confirms December Benefit Payments Before 2.8% Increase

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has begun issuing payments for December 2025, marking the final disbursements of the year for beneficiaries of various programs including retirement insurance, survivor benefits, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). These payments are crucial for many, as they come just before a scheduled cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) of 2.8% that will take effect with January 2026 payments.

Payment Schedule for December

The payment distribution for December will adhere to the standard Social Security calendar, ensuring beneficiaries receive their funds in a timely manner. SSI recipients will receive their payments on December 1, while the payments for retirement, SSDI, and survivor benefits will be staggered based on the recipient’s birthdate. Here is the breakdown:

– **Wednesday, December 3**: Beneficiaries who have received payments since before May 1997, including dual beneficiaries.
– **Wednesday, December 10**: Recipients with birthdays from the 1st to the 10th.
– **Wednesday, December 17**: Recipients with birthdays from the 11th to the 20th.
– **Wednesday, December 24**: Recipients with birthdays from the 21st to the 31st.
– **Wednesday, December 31**: SSI recipients will receive their January payment.

It is important to note that individuals who have been receiving benefits since before May 1997 will continue to receive their payments on the 1st of each month, regardless of their birthday.

Benefit Amounts and Payment Methods

The amounts disbursed to beneficiaries vary according to eligibility criteria, income history, and work life. According to SSA data, the average monthly payments for 2025 are as follows:

– **Retirees**: Average payment of $2,008.31, with a maximum amount reaching $5,108.
– **Disabled workers**: Average payment of $1,582.95.
– **Survivor benefits**: Average payment of $1,575.30.
– **SSI beneficiaries**: Average payment of $717.84.

These figures will increase by 2.8% starting with January 2026 payments due to the upcoming cost-of-living adjustment.

The SSA has shifted towards electronic payments, largely moving away from paper checks. Beneficiaries have two primary options for receiving their payments:

1. **Direct Deposit**: Beneficiaries can provide their banking information through the “my Social Security” online portal to facilitate direct deposit.
2. **Express Debit Card**: For those without bank accounts, benefits can be accessed via a Direct Express card, specifically designed for federal payments.

As December progresses, beneficiaries can look forward to timely payments that will support them during the holiday season. With the impending COLA increase, many are optimistic about the additional financial support that will become effective in January.