Two SSI Payments Set for December 2025: Social Security Explains Why It’s Not an Extra Check
A scheduling shift means millions will receive two SSI payments in December—but January benefits are simply arriving early.
It appears that some Social Security beneficiaries are scheduled to receive another payment during December due to a glitch in the payment calendar. However, they will not actually receive an extra payment, according to FOX BUSINESS.
Typically, the Social Security Administration (SSA) issues Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments by the first day of each month. The SSI program provides monthly payments to eligible seniors with limited income, as well as people with disabilities. This is different from standard Social Security retirement benefits.
When the first day of the month falls on a weekend or a federal holiday, SSI payments for that month are issued on the last business day of the previous month to ensure beneficiaries receive their funds before the month begins and avoid potential expenses.
Two SSI Payments Scheduled This December Due to Holiday Calendar Shift
This applies to the current month: since the beginning of January 2026 coincides with New Year’s Day, two SSI payments will be issued in December. The first payment was already sent on its official date, December 1, as it covers the benefits for the current month. The second payment will be issued on Wednesday, December 31, covering January benefits.
It is worth noting that SSI payments are usually deposited via direct deposit. Beneficiaries who do not have bank accounts, or who wish to receive their payments differently, can access them through Direct Express debit cards.
According to the news network, the SSA decided to stop issuing paper checks at the end of last September. This move followed an executive order from President Donald Trump earlier this year, mandating that all federal payments be delivered electronically—either through direct deposit into bank accounts or through debit card transfers.
SSA Urges Shift to Direct Deposit as Paper Check Use Falls to 0.6%
Agency data shows that as of September, more than 68 million Americans nationwide were receiving Social Security benefits. Among them, around 390,000 people—roughly 0.6%—were still receiving their payments by paper check.
The SSA website offers methods for beneficiaries to register for direct deposit through the “My Social Security” platform, by phone through the SSA, or through the Treasury Department’s Electronic Payment Solution Center. Beneficiaries may also register in person by visiting their financial institutions.
