The Social Security Administration (SSA) recently confirmed that select retirees will receive an additional Social Security payment before year-end.
On December 31, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) beneficiaries will see this payment boost due to the new 2025 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) confirmed in October.
Over 70 million beneficiaries can anticipate this additional income to help cover living costs and adjust for inflation. If eligible, here’s everything to know about the exact payment dates and how to prepare for the New Year’s Day increase.
Advance Payment Scheduled for End of December
For many retirees, Social Security payments are typically scheduled for the first day of the month. However, since January 1 falls on a holiday this year, SSA will move the payment to the preceding business day. This ensures that beneficiaries receive their funds promptly.
Alongside this advance payment, regular payments will continue on their usual schedule, with dates starting on November 3 and recurring every second, third, and fourth Wednesday of the month.
New Social Security Payment for Retirees Soon
The amount of Social Security benefits received by retirees is influenced by several factors, including lifetime earnings and the age at which benefits are claimed. States with higher average incomes generally have residents who receive larger Social Security benefits.
Additionally, some retirees move to states with lower living costs, impacting their overall income and expenses. By managing benefits effectively, many retirees can enhance their annual income despite the COLA adjustments for 2025.
In fact, some optimization strategies can lead to an income boost of up to $22,924 annually for retirees. Although the 2.5% monthly COLA increase is helpful, learning efficient ways to maximize benefits can create a more comfortable and financially stable retirement. Below is a list of states with the highest average benefits:
- New Jersey: $2,100
- Connecticut: $2,084
- Delaware: $2,064
- New Hampshire: $2,039
- Maryland: $2,008
- Michigan: $2,004
- Washington: $1,992
- Minnesota: $1,982
- Indiana: $1,952
- Massachusetts: $1,946
This change results in a monthly increase ranging from $48.65 to $52.50, depending on the state. While modest, this boost is significant as retirees contend with rising costs and inflation.
November Payment Amounts for Retirees
The amount of Social Security a retiree receives each month depends on several factors, including their full retirement age (FRA), work history, and contributions made during employment.
With the confirmed 2.5% COLA, beneficiaries across various programs—retirement, survivor, disability insurance (RSDI), and SSI—will see an increase as outlined below:
| Benefit Type | Social Security Check | 2.5% COLA Increase | Extra Income |
|---|---|---|---|
| Retirement | |||
| Average | $1,900 | $1,948 | $48 |
| Age 62 | $2,710 | $2,778 | $68 |
| Age 67 | $3,822 | $3,918 | $96 |
| Age 70 | $4,873 | $4,995 | $122 |
| Survivor | |||
| Average | $1,505 | $1,543 | $38 |
| Individual | $1,773 | $1,817 | $44 |
| 2 Children | $3,653 | $3,744 | $91 |
| Disability | |||
| Average | $1,537 | $1,575 | $38 |
| Blind Recipients | $2,590 | $2,655 | $65 |
| Maximum Payment | $3,822 | $3,918 | $96 |
| SSI | |||
| Average | $698 | $715 | $17 |
| Individual | $943 | $967 | $24 |
| Couples | $1,415 | $1,450 | $35 |
| Essential Person | $472 | $484 | $12 |
If your Social Security payment does not arrive on the scheduled date, allow for at least three mailing days before reaching out to customer support. For details on monthly payments, check your My Social Security Account for statements and additional information on your benefits.
FAQs
When will I receive the year-end Social Security payment?
The year-end Social Security payment for SSI beneficiaries is scheduled for December 31, ahead of the January 1 holiday.
Why is my Social Security payment being issued early?
Since January 1 falls on a federal holiday, payments that would normally be scheduled for the first of the month are moved to the last business day of December.
How much will my Social Security payment increase with COLA?
The confirmed 2.5% COLA increase varies based on your benefits type, retirement age, and work history, with increases ranging from around $17 for SSI beneficiaries to over $100 for certain retirees.
Can I check my new Social Security benefit amount online?
Yes, you can log into your My Social Security Account to view your updated benefit amounts, access financial statements, and request further information on your payments.
What should I do if my payment is delayed?
If you don’t receive your payment on the expected date, wait at least three mailing days. After that, you can contact Social Security customer service for assistance.