Social Security Payments Scheduled for December 24: Who Will Receive Checks This Week
Millions of Americans are set to receive their Social Security payments this week as the Social Security Administration (SSA) releases the final wave of December 2025 benefits. The payments, scheduled for Wednesday, December 24, arrive just weeks before a major Social Security COLA increase takes effect in January 2026.
This Social Security payment update is especially important for retirees, disabled workers, and survivors who rely on monthly benefits to manage rising living costs. With inflation still impacting household budgets, this December payment provides timely financial relief.
Who Gets Social Security Payments on December 24?
According to the official SSA payment schedule, Social Security beneficiaries born between the 21st and 31st of any month will receive their monthly Social Security benefits on December 24.
This group represents the third and final Social Security payment batch for December. Payments are typically deposited directly into bank accounts or loaded onto Direct Express debit cards, as paper checks are now mostly phased out.
If you fall into this birthdate range, you should expect your Social Security direct deposit early Wednesday morning, depending on your bank’s processing time.
How the Social Security Payment Schedule Works
The Social Security payment schedule is organized primarily by the beneficiary’s date of birth. The SSA generally sends out payments on Wednesdays throughout the month.
Beneficiaries born between the 1st and 10th receive payments on the second Wednesday. Those born between the 11th and 20th are paid on the third Wednesday. Beneficiaries born after the 20th, including those receiving payments on December 24, are paid on the fourth Wednesday.
This structured system helps ensure smooth distribution of Social Security retirement benefits across millions of recipients.
Special Payment Rules for Longtime Beneficiaries
Not all recipients follow the Wednesday payment system. Americans who started receiving Social Security benefits before May 1997 typically receive their payments on the 3rd of each month, unless that date falls on a weekend or federal holiday.
Additionally, individuals who receive both Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) usually receive SSI on the 1st of the month and Social Security benefits on the 3rd.
These rules remain unchanged heading into 2026.
Social Security COLA Increase Coming in January 2026
One of the biggest Social Security updates for beneficiaries is the upcoming 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). Starting in January 2026, monthly Social Security payments will increase by an average of $56 per month.
The Social Security COLA is designed to help retirees and other beneficiaries keep up with inflation. While the December 24 payment reflects current benefit amounts, the next payment cycle will include the increased rates.
This COLA adjustment applies to retirement benefits, SSDI, and survivor benefits, making it a major financial boost for millions of Americans.
Shift to Direct Deposit and Digital Payments
Another major Social Security change is the continued transition away from paper checks. Most beneficiaries now receive payments through direct deposit or the Direct Express card program.
The SSA encourages digital payments because they are faster, more secure, and reduce the risk of lost or stolen checks. Beneficiaries who have not yet switched can update their payment method through their my Social Security account.
SSI Payment Dates for Late 2025 and Early 2026
For those receiving Supplemental Security Income, the SSA has confirmed upcoming payment dates. An SSI payment scheduled for December 31, 2025, will count as the January 2026 benefit. The February 2026 SSI payment will arrive on January 30, and the March 2026 payment is scheduled for February 27.
These early payments are issued when the normal payment date falls on a weekend or holiday.
What Beneficiaries Should Do Now
If your Social Security payment does not arrive on December 24, the SSA advises waiting three business days before contacting the agency. Beneficiaries should also regularly check their my Social Security account for updates, payment confirmations, and benefit changes.
With the Social Security COLA increase, updated payment schedules, and digital payment transitions, staying informed is more important than ever for Social Security recipients in the USA.
Also Read: IRS $2,000 Direct Deposit December 2025 – Check Eligibility & Claim Steps Now!