Dreaming of retirement is a common goal, but for many older Americans, the reality is far from relaxing. Financial struggles, rising costs, and shrinking savings have made retirement feel more like a challenge than a reward. That’s why the upcoming Social Security payment—set to land in just three days on Wednesday, December 18, 2025—feels like a lifeline for a lucky group of beneficiaries.
For those receiving it, the average check will be around $1,955, and it couldn’t come at a better time.
Table of Contents
Struggle
Retirement should be about comfort and freedom, but that’s no longer the case for millions. Nearly 27 million older American households are facing serious financial hardship. Why? A mix of inflation, weak savings, and unpredictable markets.
According to the Washington State Standard, over half of American workers say inflation is ruining their chance at a comfortable retirement. Health care costs in retirement have also gone up, and the stock market’s ups and downs have slashed thousands from many people’s 401(k) accounts.
That’s why Social Security matters more than ever. For many people over 65, it’s the main source of income. It not only keeps basic needs covered like housing, food, and medicine, but it also acts as a safety net to protect retirees from outliving their savings.
Importance
These monthly checks aren’t just numbers. They are survival tools.
Social Security:
- Reduces poverty for older Americans
- Provides peace of mind in uncertain times
- Helps married couples through survivor benefits
- Offers steady income for disabled workers
It’s no wonder these payments are so important. For many households, they’re the only stable financial resource left.
Who
So, who is getting the second December payment on Wednesday, December 18?
According to the Social Security payment schedule, this round of payments goes to:
- Beneficiaries whose birthdays fall between the 21st and 31st of any month
This group is part of the SSA’s staggered payment system, which spreads checks across the month based on birth dates.
Here’s a quick look at how December’s payments are scheduled:
| Birth Date Range | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| 1st–10th | December 10 |
| 11th–20th | December 17 |
| 21st–31st | December 18 |
Note: The December 1 payment was for SSI recipients, and is separate from the retirement or disability benefit checks.
Amounts
Not everyone gets the same amount. What you receive depends on your earnings history, when you retired, and your current benefit type.
Here are the average monthly payments in 2025:
| Benefit Type | Average Amount |
|---|---|
| Retirement | $1,955.48 |
| Survivor | $1,575.30 |
| Disability (SSDI) | $1,445.72 |
| SSI | $717.51 |
Some retirees receive more—especially if they delayed retirement until age 70 or had higher lifetime earnings. But for many, this average benefit makes a real difference in covering everyday needs like groceries, rent, and medicine.
Criteria
To qualify for these Social Security payments, you must meet one of the following:
Retirement Benefits:
- Must be at least 62 years old
- Must have earned 40 work credits, typically by working 10 years
- Must have paid Social Security taxes during those working years
Disability Benefits (SSDI):
- Must be disabled or blind
- Must have enough work credits
- Must be unable to engage in substantial gainful activity
Family or Survivor Benefits:
- Applies to spouses, ex-spouses, children, and survivors
- Based on the work record of a qualifying worker
These criteria determine both your eligibility and how much you’ll receive each month. And remember—delaying your claim up to age 70 can increase your monthly amount, though it doesn’t change the total lifetime benefit in most cases.
Future
Social Security is adapting. Because Americans are living longer and working later, the SSA has already adjusted full retirement age and will continue to do so to keep the program sustainable.
If you’re still years away from retirement, consider these facts when planning:
- The age you choose to retire affects your benefit amount
- Waiting longer means a bigger monthly check
- Health and life expectancy should factor into your decision
For those already receiving payments this month, this December 18 deposit offers a moment of financial relief—and hopefully, a chance to enjoy the holidays with less stress and a little more security.
FAQs
Who gets paid on December 18?
People born between the 21st and 31st of any month.
How much is the average retirement check?
$1,955.48 is the average monthly payment in 2025.
Can family members receive benefits?
Yes, spouses, children, and survivors may qualify.
What’s the SSI average payment?
Around $717.51 per month as of 2025.
Does retiring later increase payments?
Yes, delaying retirement can increase monthly benefits.
