As of December 1, 2025, Social Security (SS) payments are sticking to their predictable rhythm, even after the recent government shutdown. Whether you’re receiving retirement, disability (SSDI), survivors, or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, the U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA) issues checks on set dates based on your birthdate or when you started receiving benefits. This ensures smooth cash flow for over 70 million Americans.
The good news? December follows the standard schedule—no major disruptions. Plus, SSI folks get an extra check on Dec. 31 to bridge the New Year’s holiday. Looking ahead, January 2026 brings a 2.8% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA), boosting average retirement benefits by about $50/month. If you don’t see your payment, wait three mailing days or check your “my Social Security” account at SSA.gov. Let’s dive into the details.
How Social Security Payments Are Scheduled
Most SS benefits (retirement, SSDI, survivors) are paid via direct deposit on the second, third, or fourth Wednesday of the month, tied to your birthdate. Pre-1997 recipients get paid earlier. SSI is simpler: first of the month (adjusted for holidays/weekends).
December 2025 Payment Dates
| Benefit Type | Birthdate Range (or Start Date) | Payment Date |
|---|---|---|
| Retirement/SSDI/Survivors | Before May 1997 | Wednesday, December 3 |
| Retirement/SSDI/Survivors | 1st–10th | Wednesday, December 10 |
| Retirement/SSDI/Survivors | 11th–20th | Wednesday, December 17 |
| Retirement/SSDI/Survivors | 21st–31st | Wednesday, December 24 |
| SSI | All (regular) | Monday, December 1 |
| SSI | All (extra for Jan. holiday) | Wednesday, December 31 |
*Direct deposit arrives same day; paper checks add 2-3 mailing days. If Dec. 24 falls on Christmas Eve, some banks close early—confirm with yours.
Full 2025 Monthly Schedule: Mark Your Calendar
For the rest of 2025 (and a peek at 2026), here’s the breakdown. Note: January 2026 payments shift due to New Year’s Day (Jan. 1 holiday)—SSI on Dec. 31, 2025; regular SS on Jan. 7, 14, 21, or 28.
Retirement/SSDI/Survivors (Post-May 1997)
| Month | 1st–10th | 11th–20th | 21st–31st | Pre-1997 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| December 2025 | Dec. 10 | Dec. 17 | Dec. 24 | Dec. 3 |
| January 2026 | Jan. 14 | Jan. 21 | Jan. 28 | Jan. 7 |
SSI Payments (First of Month, Adjusted for Holidays)
| Month | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| December 2025 | Dec. 1 (regular) + Dec. 31 (extra for Jan.) |
| January 2026 | Jan. 1 (but advanced to Dec. 31, 2025) |
*SSI: If the 1st is a weekend/holiday, it shifts to the prior business day. Your Dec. 31 check includes the 2.8% COLA for January.
Upcoming Changes: 2.8% COLA in 2026
Starting January 2026, all SS benefits rise 2.8%—the smallest since 2021, tied to inflation cooling. Average boosts:
- Retirement: +$50/month ($1,927 avg.).
- SSDI: +$40/month ($1,539 avg.).
- SSI: +$29/month ($943 avg. individual).
Your first COLA-adjusted check arrives based on the schedule above. Track it via SSA’s online portal.
Quick Tips: What to Do If Your Check Is Late
- Direct Deposit? 99% of payments are electronic—confirm setup at GoDirect.gov.
- Missing Payment? Log into my Social Security for status; call 1-800-772-1213 (7 AM–7 PM, M-F).
- Paper Check? Allow 5 extra days around holidays.
- Overpaid? SSA may recoup—check your award letter.
- New to SS? Apply 3 months early at SSA.gov.
Stay ahead by signing up for SSA alerts. With holidays looming, double-check your deposit date to avoid surprises. Got your birthdate handy? Plug it into SSA’s schedule tool for a personalized view. Questions? Drop ’em below.