The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program is highly valued by Americans and continues to help millions of people who are struggling financially because of age, disabilities, or low income.
This federal benefit, designed to provide financial support to the most vulnerable, has implemented significant changes in 2025, especially with the recent cost of living adjustment (COLA). The 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for 2025 raised the maximum monthly SSI benefit to $967 for an individual and up to $1,450 for a couple.
Dates for SSI payments: the February advance deposit
Monthly SSI payments are usually given on the first day of each month, and beneficiaries use this money to pay for basic needs like food, housing, and utilities.
However, when this date falls on a weekend or federal holiday, the Social Security Administration (SSA) advances the payment. This is about the payment due on February 1, 2025, which will be given on January 31.
Recipients can pick from three ways to get their payments. Direct deposit is the preferred method by the SSA because it is safe and fast. The Direct Express Card lets you get and manage money without needing a bank account.
The third option is a paper check, but it is not the best choice because it can take longer or get lost. The SSA strongly encourages using direct deposit to prevent issues and make sure payments are on time.
Requirements to receive SSI in 2025
The SSI program is intended for individuals and families with limited income and resources. The main eligible groups include:
- Adults over 65 years of age with low income.
- People with disabilities that prevent them from working.
- Children with disabilities in low-income families.
Eligibility is based on two criteria
First, the SSA looks at the limits for income and resources: Your monthly income should be below the limits set by the SSA, not counting some types of income.
In addition, individuals cannot have more than $2,000 in resources like cash or bank accounts, while couples cannot exceed $3,000. However, some assets like a primary home or a vehicle do not count toward this limit.
For adults, a disability must be shown that stops them from working for at least 12 months or is fatal. They evaluate how a child’s disability impacts their activities compared to other kids their age.
It is actually possible to receive SSI and Social Security at the same time
In some situations, a person can get both SSI and Social Security benefits. For instance, people who have the right work history for Social Security and also meet the money requirements for SSI can get benefits from both programs.
The total payments can be changed so they do not go over set limits, keeping SSI as extra income.
Payments scheduled for January 2025
The schedule for Social Security and SSI payments is well-organized to prevent confusion. For example, people who get SSDI payments receive them according to their birthdate.
People born between the 11th and 20th of any month will get their money on January 15.
People born after the 20th will get them on January 22. On the other hand, people who qualify for both SSI and SSDI will receive their Social Security payment on February 3, 2025.
