Millions of low-income Americans, seniors, and people with disabilities rely on Supplemental Security Income (SSI) to help cover their everyday needs. After a skipped payment in September due to the Labor Day holiday, the next round of SSI benefits is now confirmed to arrive on October 1st, 2025.
Here’s everything you need to know in simple, clear terms.
Why There Was No SSI Payment in September
SSI payments usually come in on the 1st of every month. But when that date falls on a weekend or holiday, the payment is sent on the last working day before it.
In September 2025, September 1st was Labor Day (a public holiday), so the Social Security Administration (SSA) sent payments early on August 29th. That means no new payment was sent in September.
Upcoming SSI Payment Schedule (2025–2026)
Here’s the official payment schedule for the next few months:
October 2025: On time – Wednesday, October 1st
November 2025: Early – Thursday, October 31st (November 1st is a Saturday)
December 2025: On time – Monday, December 1st
January 2026: Early – Wednesday, December 31st (January 1st is New Year’s Day)
Make sure to keep track of these dates, especially when months skip or move payments earlier.
SSI Payment Amounts for October 2025 (with COLA Increase)
Thanks to the 2.5% Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for 2025, here are the updated maximum SSI monthly amounts:
Individual: $967
Eligible Couple: $1,450
Essential Person (someone helping an SSI recipient): $484
These amounts can vary depending on your income and living situation, but they represent the maximum benefits one can receive under the SSI program.
Who Qualifies for SSI Benefits?
To get SSI payments, you must:
Be 65 years or older, or
Have a disability or blindness, and
Have very low income and limited assets
Financial limits include:
Assets below $2,000 for individuals or $3,000 for couples (excluding your main home and one vehicle)
Very low income, including income from Social Security Retirement
Can You Receive Both SSI and Social Security Retirement?
Yes, you can—but not as separate payments.
Here’s how it works:
Social Security retirement income counts as income under SSI rules.
The SSA reduces your SSI amount by how much you already receive in retirement income.
Example:
If your retirement benefit is $600, your SSI benefit would be $367 to make the total $967.
If your retirement income is $967 or more, you won’t receive SSI.
So, SSI is like a top-up to make sure your total income reaches the federal minimum.
What If Your SSI Payment Doesn’t Arrive?
If your money hasn’t shown up on time, don’t panic. Here’s what to do:
- Double-check your bank account or mailbox. Delays can happen.
- Look for mail from the SSA. They may have contacted you to verify something.
- Wait a day or two. Holidays or processing hiccups can cause short delays.
- Still nothing? Call the SSA:
- Phone: 1-800-772-1213
- TTY: 1-800-325-0778
- Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (local time)
Tip: Have your Social Security Number ready when calling. Also, be patient—wait times can be long, so grab a coffee and hang in there.
Quick Reference Table: SSI Payment Info
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Next SSI Payment Date | October 1, 2025 |
| November Payment | Sent early on October 31, 2025 |
| December Payment | December 1, 2025 |
| January 2026 Payment | Early, on December 31, 2025 |
| Max Individual SSI | $967/month |
| Max Couple SSI | $1,450/month |
| Income Limits | Less than $2,000 (individual), $3,000 (couple) |
| SSA Phone Number | 1-800-772-1213 |
SSI is a vital support system for millions of Americans, especially seniors and disabled individuals with limited income. With October’s payment arriving on time and upcoming dates clearly outlined, you can plan your finances better.
Remember, if you’re also receiving retirement benefits, your SSI may be adjusted—but not denied outright unless your total income exceeds the limits. Stay on top of the payment calendar, keep your documents up to date, and reach out to the SSA if any issues come up.
This small but steady income can go a long way in helping with day-to-day living costs.
