Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a program that helps low-income individuals, including those who are blind, disabled, or over 65 years old. However, not everyone who receives SSI gets the same amount.
The amount of money you receive depends on your specific situation. While some may receive a smaller payment, others qualify for more based on their resources and income.
How SSI Payments Work
SSI is not funded by Social Security taxes like Social Security benefits. Instead, it is paid for by the federal government. That means the money comes from a different source than Social Security Trust Funds.
Your eligibility and the amount you receive depend on factors like your income, resources, and whether you meet specific conditions, such as being disabled or blind.
- Essential person: Up to $472 per month
- Individual: Up to $943 per month (for those who qualify due to low income, being blind, disabled, or 65+)
- Married couples: Up to $1,415 per month
Note that the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for 2025 has not yet been added to these amounts.
What’s Happening with SSI Payments in December?
Normally, SSI payments are sent out on specific dates. However, in December, things will look a little different. Normally, December 1st would be the payment date, but there will be no check on that day.
Instead, the payment will be sent two days earlier, on November 29, 2024. This means recipients will effectively receive two payments in the same month—one for November and one for December.
Why is the December Payment Early?
The reason for this early payment is related to the Federal Holiday on January 1, 2025.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) cannot process payments on a Federal Holiday, so they have to send out the January payment early.
The January payment for SSI recipients will be sent out on December 31, 2024.
This means that those who receive SSI will also get the 2025 COLA increase before many retirees who depend on Social Security payments.
Here’s a look at the maximum SSI payment amounts that recipients can expect from December 31, 2024:
- Essential person: $484
- Individual: $967
- Married couple: $1,450
These increases reflect the COLA adjustment for 2025.
If you’re receiving SSI, be aware of the early payment schedule in November and the important changes in December.
The new year will bring the 2025 COLA increase, meaning your monthly payment could be higher. Make sure to check your payment dates and amounts to stay updated.
Why is my SSI payment different from someone else’s?
SSI payments can vary based on factors like income, resources, disability status, or age. Different situations lead to different amounts.
When will I receive my December SSI payment?
In December 2024, your SSI payment will be sent early on November 29, 2024.
Why is my SSI payment early in November?
Due to the Federal Holiday on January 1, 2025, your January payment will be sent out early on December 31, 2024.
Will my December SSI payment include the 2025 COLA increase?
Yes, your December 31 payment will include the 2025 COLA increase.
How much will I get from SSI in December?
The maximum payment will be $484 for an essential person, $967 for an individual, and $1,450 for a married couple, depending on your eligibility.
