A bit of good news is coming your way if you’re a New Yorker relying on Social Security benefits — your last December payment is just around the corner. With the holiday season in full swing and expenses piling up, the upcoming Social Security check is perfectly timed.
This is especially important for many recipients who depend on these payments as their main source of income. So, let’s break down the who, when, and why of this incoming cash rain.
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Schedule
The Social Security Administration (SSA) doesn’t wing it when it comes to payments — they stick to a very strict monthly schedule. This keeps things smooth and predictable for the millions of people receiving benefits every month.
Here’s a quick look at how SSA schedules its regular payments:
| Birthdate Range | Payment Date (Monthly) |
|---|---|
| 1st – 10th | Second Wednesday of the month |
| 11th – 20th | Third Wednesday of the month |
| 21st – 31st | Fourth Wednesday of the month |
For December 2025, if your birthday falls between the 21st and 31st, you’re in the final group to receive their Social Security payments — and yours is due on December 26, 2025.
But keep in mind, there are a few exceptions. If you’re getting Supplemental Security Income (SSI), your check will typically hit on the first of the month. And if you get both SSI and retirement benefits, your retirement check comes on the third. Also, those who started receiving benefits before May 1997 will also receive their monthly payment on the third.
Recipients
This final wave of SSA payments will land in the bank accounts of beneficiaries born between the 21st and 31st. For many in this group, the payment is not just another deposit — it’s crucial, especially during the expensive holiday season.
And if you’re living in New York, there’s even more to celebrate. Some residents may be getting additional financial relief beyond their SSA benefits, depending on eligibility for state programs. So if you’re in that last December SSA payment group, double-check your bank account around December 26.
Bonuses
New York has been working hard to distribute various financial aid programs to help residents handle rising costs. Besides the well-known STAR (School Tax Relief) program — which helps reduce property tax bills — there are new inflation rebate payments being issued to help struggling households keep up with the cost of living.
While not everyone will qualify for these extras, the timing couldn’t be better. Between Christmas shopping, heating bills, and other year-end expenses, that final payment will bring much-needed relief to many New Yorkers.
Changes
The financial landscape in New York is shifting, and in some good ways. The state budget for Financial Year 2026 is packed with support for working families.
Here are a few changes that could affect your wallet:
- Expanded Child Tax Credit: Now open to an extra 118,000 families.
- Tax cuts: Affecting over 507,000 New Yorkers.
- $400 million invested to protect childcare subsidies.
- $110 million in grants to help childcare providers stay open.
These changes mean many families will have a little more breathing room as we head into the new year. With inflation and living costs still high, that support couldn’t come at a better time.
Tips
One standout change is the new ‘No Tax on Tips’ legislation. If you work in New York’s hospitality or service industry, this one’s for you. Starting in 2026, you’ll be able to deduct up to $25,000 in earned tips from your reported income on your federal taxes.
But there’s a catch — mandatory service charges (like those added automatically for large restaurant parties) don’t count. Only voluntary tips qualify for the deduction.
This new law is expected to benefit thousands of tipped workers across the state, from bartenders and servers to hotel staff and delivery drivers.
With all these changes in play, December is shaping up to be a turning point — both in terms of direct payments and future financial relief.
As 2025 wraps up, New Yorkers receiving SSA payments — especially those in the December 26 group — can look forward to a timely boost. Whether it’s covering rent, buying holiday gifts, or catching up on bills, this final SSA payment could make all the difference.
Between local programs, federal updates, and tax changes, the financial outlook for New Yorkers is shifting — and for many, it’s for the better.
FAQs
When will the last SSA payment arrive?
December 26, 2025, for eligible recipients.
Who gets paid on December 26?
Those born between the 21st and 31st of any month.
When are SSI payments made?
SSI checks are paid on the first of each month.
What if I receive both SSI and retirement?
Your retirement benefits are paid on the third.
What is the new tax rule for tips?
You can deduct up to $25,000 in earned tips.
