Social Security beneficiaries can expect their monthly payments in December, with adjustments to the schedule to account for holidays. The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides benefits to 72.5 million Americans each month, including retirement, disability, and survivor payments. For recipients of Supplemental Security Income (SSI), early payments for January will also be made. Here’s a detailed look at the December payment schedule, recent updates to Social Security, and key changes for beneficiaries in 2025.
December 2024 Social Security Payment Schedule
The SSA disburses payments based on recipients’ birth dates and the type of benefit they receive. Here’s the official schedule for December:
Payment Dates
| Date | Recipients |
|---|---|
| December 1st | All Social Security and SSI recipients who began receiving benefits before July 1997. |
| December 13th | Recipients with birthdays between the 1st and 10th of any month. |
| December 20th | Recipients with birthdays between the 11th and 20th of any month. |
| December 24th | Recipients with birthdays between the 21st and 31st of any month. |
| December 29th | Early payment for January benefits for recipients who began receiving Social Security or SSI before July 1997. |
Why an Extra Payment on December 29?
January 1st is a federal holiday. To ensure recipients receive their funds on time, the SSA moves payments scheduled for that day to the last business day of December—in this case, December 29.
Managing Your Payments
To track your payments, view financial statements, or request a replacement Social Security card, access your My Social Security Account.
Key Updates to Social Security for 2025
The SSA has announced three major changes that will impact beneficiaries in the coming year:
1. Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA)
The 2025 COLA is set at 2.5%, a decrease from the 3.2% adjustment in 2024. This lower increase reflects a significant slowdown in inflation during 2024, providing some financial relief to seniors as living costs stabilize.
2. Increased Earnings Test Limits
Beneficiaries who work while receiving Social Security must adhere to earnings-test limits:
- Regular Limit: Increased from $22,320 in 2024 to $23,400 in 2025. For every $2 earned above the limit, $1 is deducted from benefits.
- Full Retirement Age (FRA) Limit: Raised from $59,520 in 2024 to $62,160 in 2025. For every $3 earned above the limit, $1 is deducted.
- Exemption for Full Retirement Age: Once beneficiaries reach FRA, earnings no longer reduce Social Security payments.
3. Higher Cost Per Work Credit
To qualify for Social Security benefits, individuals must earn 40 work credits throughout their career.
- 2024: Each credit costs $1,730 in earnings.
- 2025: The cost rises to $1,810.
Even part-time workers earning minimum wage can typically secure the four credits needed annually.
How Social Security Benefits Are Paid
Social Security benefits provide vital financial support for retirees, individuals with disabilities, and survivors. Payments are structured based on eligibility criteria:
Retirement Benefits
- Monthly payments depend on work history and contributions to Social Security over your career.
- Eligibility requires earning 40 work credits.
Disability Benefits
- Designed for individuals who meet SSA’s definition of disability and have contributed enough through payroll taxes.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Provides financial assistance to low-income individuals who are aged, blind, or disabled.
- Payments are typically made at the start of each month unless rescheduled due to holidays or weekends.
FAQ:
1. Why are some payments scheduled early in December?
The SSA adjusts payments to avoid delays caused by holidays or weekends. For example, January 1 payments are made on December 29 because New Year’s Day is a federal holiday.
2. How does the 2025 COLA compare to previous years?
The 2.5% COLA for 2025 is smaller than the 3.2% adjustment in 2024, reflecting lower inflation rates.
3. Can I work while receiving Social Security benefits?
Yes, but earnings-test limits apply if you haven’t reached full retirement age. In 2025, the regular limit is $23,400, and the FRA limit is $62,160.
4. How do I check my payment schedule or benefit amount?
Log in to your My Social Security Account to view payment schedules, financial statements, and other details.
5. What happens if I don’t earn enough credits for Social Security?
If you fail to earn the required 40 work credits, you may not qualify for benefits. However, SSI could be an alternative for low-income individuals who meet its requirements.
