If you receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI), December 1, 2025 is a very good day! The Social Security Administration officially confirmed that the regular monthly federal SSI payment of up to $967 for individuals will be sent out on Monday, December 1 (because the normal date falls on a weekend/holiday in some months, they shift it early).
Quick History of Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
SSI started in 1974 to replace older state programs. It’s designed for seniors 65+, blind, or disabled people with very limited income and resources. Unlike Social Security retirement, SSI is funded by general taxes, not payroll taxes.
Why the $967 Amount This Month?
The maximum federal SSI payment rose to $967 in January 2025 thanks to the 2.5% COLA (cost-of-living adjustment). Some people get less if they have other income, but millions receive the full $967 every month.
Full 2025–2026 SSI Payment Schedule (Table 1)
| Payment Month | Deposit Date | Reason for Date |
|---|---|---|
| December 2025 | December 1, 2025 | Dec 1 is Monday |
| January 2026 | December 31, 2025 | Jan 1 is holiday |
| February 2026 | January 30, 2026 | Normal |
| March 2026 | February 27, 2026 | Normal |
| April 2026 | March 31, 2026 | Normal |
Who Qualifies for the $967 Deposit?
- Age 65 or older, blind, or disabled
- Monthly income below ~$1,971 (individual)
- Resources under $2,000 (not counting your home & one car)
- U.S. citizen or certain qualified non-citizens
2025 vs 2024 Maximum SSI Amounts (Table 2)
| Year | Individual Max | Couple Max | Essential Person |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | $943 | $1,415 | $472 |
| 2025 | $967 (+$24) | $1,450 (+$35) | $484 |
| 2026 (projected) | ~$992 | ~$1,488 | ~$496 (2.5–3% COLA est.) |
How to Guarantee Your Payment Arrives December 1
- Have Direct Deposit (fastest & safest)
- Keep your address and bank info updated with SSA
- Report life changes (marriage, income, moving) within 10 days
- Check “my Social Security” account for alerts
Fun Facts & Records About SSI Payments
- Over 7.5 million Americans get SSI
- Largest single-month payment ever: January 2023 when two payments went out ($1,886 for some)
- California adds the biggest state supplement (up to $1,196 total in 2025)
Expert Tips to Maximize Your Benefits
- Apply for food stamps (SNAP) – it usually doesn’t reduce SSI anymore
- Set up a free ABLE account to save without losing eligibility
- Look into state supplements (NY, CA, MA pay the most extra)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is the $967 an extra stimulus check?
No, it’s the regular December SSI payment arriving on the 1st.
Q: Why do some people get paid on different dates?
If you get both SSI and Social Security, you might be on the 3rd schedule now.
Q: Will there be a 2026 COLA?
Yes! Announced in October 2025 – most experts predict 2.5–3%.
Q: What if I don’t see my money on December 1?
Wait until end of day, then call 1-800-772-1213.
Final Thoughts
The $967 SSI payment hitting accounts on December 1, 2025 is real, confirmed, and coming fast for millions of Americans will have extra breathing room right before the holidays. Make sure your direct deposit is active, bookmark this page for the full 2026 schedule, and share it with anyone who might need it!