It’s a big week for Social Security recipients. On Wednesday, December 10, 2025, the Social Security Administration (SSA) is set to roll out another round of benefit payments—one of the most anticipated dates in the monthly payout schedule. This marks the third round of December’s distributions and includes retirement benefits, SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance), and survivor benefits.
But not everyone gets paid on this date. Wondering if you’re part of this wave and how much you might receive? Let’s break it down.
Table of Contents
Schedule
Social Security payments aren’t random—they follow a very specific schedule that’s based on the birth date of the person whose work history earned the benefit. The SSA divides payments across three Wednesdays each month, starting with the second Wednesday.
Here’s the breakdown of December’s payment dates:
| Birth Date Range | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| 1st–10th | Wednesday, Dec 10 |
| 11th–20th | Wednesday, Dec 17 |
| 21st–31st | Wednesday, Dec 24 |
If your (or your late spouse’s or parent’s) birthday falls in the first ten days of any month, your check is coming on December 10.
Qualifies
So, who exactly qualifies for this December 10 payment?
This batch includes people receiving:
- Retirement benefits
- SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance)
- Survivor benefits
The key requirement? The qualifying worker must have been born between the 1st and 10th of any month. That applies whether the worker is alive or deceased—what matters is their birthday, since that’s what determines when the SSA sends the check.
If you’re receiving benefits based on someone else’s work history, their birthday is the one that counts.
Amounts
How much are we talking about?
While a few people may receive the maximum benefit of $5,108 (especially high earners who delayed retirement until age 70), most beneficiaries receive the average amounts set by the SSA.
Here’s a look at what different groups are averaging in 2025:
| Type of Beneficiary | Average Monthly Payment |
|---|---|
| Retired workers | $2,012.30 |
| Disabled workers (SSDI) | $1,588.44 |
| Survivor beneficiaries | $1,575.89 |
| SSI recipients | $717.51 |
Keep in mind that these are average figures—your actual deposit may be higher or lower depending on your work history, earnings, and age at retirement.
Next
Missed out on the December 10 payment wave? No worries—two more payment dates are scheduled before the year ends:
- December 17: For beneficiaries born between the 11th and 20th
- December 24: For those born between the 21st and 31st
It’s worth marking your calendar with your own payment day. This can help with budgeting and give you peace of mind when planning for bills, groceries, or holiday expenses.
Tips
Here are a few quick tips to make sure you never miss your Social Security payment:
- Set up direct deposit: This is the fastest and most reliable way to receive your money.
- Create a mySocialSecurity account: You can track your benefit status, payment history, and get notifications.
- Remember the schedule: Payments always land on a Wednesday, based on birth date.
Whether you rely on Social Security for your entire income or as a supplement, understanding the schedule helps you stay one step ahead financially.
As the year comes to a close, this December 10 payment could be the boost many families need—right in time for winter expenses and holiday costs. Knowing when your money arrives gives you back control, and in these times, that’s more valuable than ever.
FAQs
Who gets paid on Dec 10?
Anyone whose (or whose worker’s) birthday is between the 1st and 10th.
How much is the average retirement check?
Around $2,012.30 per month for retired workers in 2025.
What is the SSDI average payment?
The average SSDI check is about $1,588.44 per month.
When is the next payment after Dec 10?
December 17—for those born between the 11th and 20th.
Is Dec 10 the final 2025 payment?
No, there are still payments on Dec 17 and Dec 24.
