Millions of Americans will see two Social Security–related payments in December, leading many to call it a “Christmas boost.” While this is not a bonus or extra stimulus check, the Social Security Administration has confirmed two deposits for specific beneficiaries due to the way the federal calendar shifts at the end of the year. Here’s who qualifies and how the schedule works.
Why Two Payments Arrive in December
The “Christmas boost” happens because January 1 is a federal holiday, and SSI benefits cannot be paid on that date. As a result, the SSA moves the January payment to the previous business day.
For 2025, that day is December 31, meaning SSI beneficiaries receive:
One payment on December 1
And the next on December 31
This creates the effect of two December deposits, even though the second one officially counts for January.
Who Qualifies for the Two December Payments
Only SSI (Supplemental Security Income) recipients qualify for the two December payments. This includes seniors with limited income, disabled adults, low-income individuals, and children with qualifying disabilities. SSI is the only Social Security program affected by the holiday rollover rule.
Who Does NOT Receive Two Payments
Social Security retirement, SSDI, survivor, and dependent beneficiaries do not receive two payments in December. They follow the regular Wednesday payment schedule—December 10, 17, and 24—based on their birthdays.
Only those who receive SSI (either alone or combined with Social Security) qualify.
| Payment Type | Deposit Date | Who Receives It | Amount (Maximum) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regular December SSI Payment | December 1 | All SSI recipients | Up to $967 |
| January 2026 SSI Payment (paid early) | December 31 | All SSI recipients | Up to $967 |
Is the Second December Payment a Bonus?
No. The second payment on December 31 is not a holiday bonus, not a Christmas check, and not a stimulus payment. It is simply the January 2026 SSI payment issued early.
The payment counts toward January’s income when calculating ongoing SSI eligibility.
How Much You May Receive
The maximum federal SSI amount for 2025 is:
Individual: $967
Couple: $1,451
Actual amounts vary based on income, living arrangements, and whether your state adds a supplemental payment.
What Mixed-Benefit Recipients Should Expect
If you receive both SSI and Social Security, you will receive:
SSI on December 1
Social Security on December 10, 17, or 24, depending on your birthday
The early SSI (January) payment on December 31
You may see three separate deposits in December, depending on your benefit combination.
Conclusion: The Social Security Christmas boost is real—but only for SSI recipients, who receive two confirmed December payments due to holiday scheduling rules. Understanding your payment type ensures you know exactly what to expect and prevents confusion during the holiday season.
Disclaimer: This article explains the official SSA payment schedule for December 2025. Actual deposit dates may vary based on bank processing times, account verification, or state-level supplements. Beneficiaries should check their My Social Security account or official SSA letters for accurate personal information.
