Here’s some not-so-great news if you rely on Supplemental Security Income (SSI). There’s no SSI payment in November—but before you panic, this isn’t a glitch. It’s just a timing issue, and the next confirmed payment of $967 will hit bank accounts on December 1.
Let’s walk through what’s going on, why it happened, who it affects, and what to expect next from the Social Security Administration (SSA).
Schedule
Every month, the Social Security Administration (SSA) sends out millions of payments to retirees, individuals with disabilities, and those receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI). These payments are typically on a set schedule and rarely shift—except when the first of the month falls on a weekend or holiday.
Here’s how the SSA usually schedules payments:
| Birthdate or Benefit Type | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| Born 1st–10th | 2nd Wednesday of the month |
| Born 11th–20th | 3rd Wednesday of the month |
| Born 21st–31st | 4th Wednesday of the month |
| SSI-only recipients | 1st of every month |
| SSI + Retirement benefits | SSI: 1st, Retirement: 3rd |
| Benefits started before May 1997 | 3rd of the month |
Now here’s where the twist comes in for SSI recipients.
Delay
Normally, SSI recipients get their payment on the first of every month. But in 2025, November 1 falls on a Saturday—and the SSA doesn’t issue payments on weekends. So, to stay ahead of schedule, the SSA sent the November SSI payment early, on October 31, 2025.
That means no payment was made in November, and the next scheduled payout is on December 1, confirmed at $967.
This early payment schedule might feel like a missed check, but it’s just how the SSA handles weekends. You didn’t lose a payment—you just got it earlier than expected.
Amount
The confirmed $967 payment on December 1 is part of the regular SSI benefit, which is designed to support Americans with very low income and limited resources.
This amount may vary based on your financial situation, living arrangements, and any other income you report. Remember: unlike retirement benefits, SSI eligibility is income-sensitive. If your income or financial circumstances change, you must notify the SSA, or risk losing your benefits or being overpaid.
Changes
Several major updates are rolling out for Social Security recipients:
1. Direct Deposit Only
As of late 2024, the SSA has phased out paper checks entirely. All benefit payments are now made by direct deposit—unless you qualify for an exemption.
You can request a paper check if:
- You’re 90 years or older
- You have a mental impairment or disability
- You live in a remote location with limited financial infrastructure
Otherwise, direct deposit is now mandatory.
2. Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA)
Good news for 2026: the SSA has confirmed a 2.8% COLA increase to help recipients keep up with inflation. While not massive, it’s a bump from 2025’s 2.5% increase.
| Year | COLA % |
|---|---|
| 2025 | 2.5% |
| 2026 | 2.8% |
This increase will apply across all benefit types: retirement, disability, and SSI.
Recap
Here’s a summary of what’s happening and what to expect:
| Key Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| November SSI Payment | Paid early on October 31, 2025 |
| December SSI Payment | Confirmed for December 1, 2025 |
| Payment Amount | $967 (may vary per recipient) |
| Next COLA Increase | 2.8% starting in 2026 |
| Paper Checks Discontinued | Direct deposit now required |
| Exemptions to Direct Deposit | Only in special cases (age, location, etc.) |
If you didn’t see an SSI deposit in November, check your October 31 payment history. And if your December payment hasn’t arrived by the first few days of the month, be sure to contact the SSA.
FAQs
Why was there no SSI payment in November?
Because November 1 fell on a weekend, the payment was made early on October 31.
When is the next SSI payment?
The next payment of $967 is scheduled for December 1.
Can I still get paper checks from SSA?
Only if you’re over 90, disabled, or live in remote areas.
What is the new COLA rate for 2026?
The SSA announced a 2.8% COLA increase for 2026 benefits.
How do I report income changes to the SSA?
Log into your SSA account or call them directly to report changes.
