The Social Security December 2025 Payments schedule includes an important distribution on December 3, when a specific group of beneficiaries will receive their monthly checks. This group includes long term recipients and people who qualify for both Social Security and SSI. Understanding who gets paid on this date helps seniors and disability beneficiaries plan their monthly expenses more effectively.
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Who Receives Social Security Payments on December 3
The Social Security Administration will issue payments to people who started receiving retirement, disability or survivor benefits before May 1997. These long term beneficiaries always receive their check at the beginning of each month. Individuals who receive both Social Security and SSI are also included in the December 3 payment group.
SSI Recipients and Their Payment Schedule
People who qualify for Supplemental Security Income receive their SSI payment on December 1. If a person collects both SSI and Social Security, their SSI arrives first, followed by the Social Security payment on December 3. SSI is meant to support low income seniors and individuals with disabilities who need additional assistance.
Average Payment Amounts for Social Security
Social Security provides different payment amounts depending on the type of benefit. The most recent figures from the SSA show that retired workers receive the highest average monthly amount, followed by disabled workers and survivor beneficiaries.
Social Security Payment Table
| Benefit Type | Average Monthly Payment |
|---|---|
| Retired workers | $2008.31 |
| Disabled workers | $1582.95 |
| Survivor beneficiaries | $1575.30 |
| SSI individuals | $717.87 |
| SSI maximum for individuals | $967 |
| SSI maximum for couples | $1450 |
Some SSI beneficiaries also receive additional money from their state, depending on local programs.
Expected Increase in 2026 Benefit Amounts
Starting January 2026, Social Security recipients will see a 2.8 percent increase in their monthly payments due to the cost of living adjustment. This adjustment helps benefits keep up with inflation. For retired workers, the SSA estimates that this increase will add around fifty six dollars to their monthly check.
December 2025 Payment Dates for Most Recipients
Most Social Security beneficiaries will be paid according to their date of birth. These payments are sent on one of three Wednesdays during the month. The payment date depends on the birthday of the worker whose earnings record is being used.
December 2025 Schedule by Birthdate
- Born between 1st and 10th: December 10
- Born between 11th and 20th: December 17
- Born between 21st and 31st: December 24
How the SSA Sends Monthly Payments
The SSA is transitioning away from paper checks and now uses electronic payment methods for nearly all beneficiaries. Individuals can receive their money by direct deposit or through a Direct Express Card if they do not have a bank account.
Ways to Receive Your Social Security Payment
Here are the available methods for receiving monthly benefits:
- Direct deposit to a bank account
- Direct Express prepaid debit card
- Update payment information through the My Social Security portal
FAQ
1. Who gets Social Security on December 3, 2025?
People who began receiving Social Security before May 1997 and individuals who receive both SSI and Social Security.
2. When is the December 2025 SSI payment sent?
SSI payments for December are issued on December 1.
3. How much do Social Security beneficiaries receive on average?
Retired workers receive about 2008 dollars per month, while disabled and survivor beneficiaries receive around 1580 to 1575 dollars.
4. Will Social Security payments increase in 2026?
Yes, benefits will increase by 2.8 percent starting January 2026 due to the cost of living adjustment.
5. How can beneficiaries receive their payments electronically?
They can use direct deposit or the Direct Express Card through the My Social Security account.
