December Social Security and Disability Payments: What to Expect

The Social Security Administration publishes annual benefit payment calendars so recipients can plan ahead. These schedules apply to retirement benefits, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), and SSI.

December 2025 Retirement and Disability Payment Dates

For retirees and disability beneficiaries who began receiving Social Security benefits after May 1997, payments are issued based on birth date:

• Wednesday, December 10 – Birthdays between the 1st and 10th
• Wednesday, December 17 – Birthdays between the 11th and 20th
• Wednesday, December 24 – Birthdays between the 21st and the end of the month

These staggered payment dates help the SSA manage the volume of monthly distributions.

Beneficiaries who started receiving benefits before May 1997, as well as those who receive both Social Security and SSI, follow a different schedule. Their December payment was issued earlier, on Wednesday, December 3.