Millions of Americans depend on Social Security benefits as a key source of monthly income. In December 2025, payments of up to $5,108 could arrive next week for eligible recipients.
This article explains who qualifies, how much the payment may be, the exact December payment dates, and what steps to take if your payment does not arrive.
Who Can Get the Maximum Payment of $5,108?
The maximum monthly Social Security payment of $5,108 applies to:
- Individuals who delay claiming until age 70.
- Beneficiaries with a long, consistent work history and high lifetime earnings.
- Payments decrease if benefits are claimed earlier. For example:
- Age 62 maximum: around $2,831
- Full retirement age (67) maximum: around $4,018
Only a small portion of recipients will receive the full $5,108. Most beneficiaries receive a lower amount based on their earnings history and claim age.
December 2025 Social Security Payment Schedule
| Beneficiary Category | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| SSI recipients | Monday, 1 Dec 2025 |
| Early Social Security & SSI combined | Wednesday, 3 Dec 2025 |
| Birthdays 1–10 | Wednesday, 10 Dec 2025 |
| Birthdays 11–20 | Wednesday, 17 Dec 2025 |
| Birthdays 21–31 | Wednesday, 24 Dec 2025 |
Note: Because of the New Year’s holiday, some January 2026 payments for SSI recipients will arrive in December 2025.
How Much Will You Actually Receive?
The actual Social Security payment depends on several factors:
- Lifetime earnings: Higher earnings lead to higher benefits.
- Claiming age: Delaying until age 70 maximizes benefits. Early claiming reduces the monthly amount.
- Type of benefit: Retirement, spousal, survivor, or disability benefits all follow slightly different rules.
- The average monthly benefit for retirees is much lower than the maximum — around $2,007.
What to Do If Your Payment Doesn’t Arrive
If your payment is delayed, follow these steps:
- Wait three business days past the scheduled date — weekends and federal holidays do not count.
- Check your bank account to ensure deposits haven’t been delayed.
- If the payment is still missing, contact the Social Security Administration (SSA) or visit your local office.
- Confirm your bank and mailing information is up-to-date.
- If you receive a paper check, report it as lost to request a replacement.
Quick Facts
- Maximum monthly benefit (age 70): $5,108
- Average monthly benefit: $2,007
- December payment date depends on birthday and type of benefit
- SSI recipients may get December and January payments together
- If payment doesn’t arrive, wait three business days before contacting SSA
December 2025 is an important month for Social Security recipients. Eligible beneficiaries may receive up to $5,108, though most will get less based on earnings and claim age.
Knowing your payment date, understanding how benefits are calculated, and being prepared for any delay ensures peace of mind.
Keep your contact and banking details updated to avoid issues and ensure timely receipt of your Social Security benefits.
FAQs
Does everyone get the full $5,108 payment?
No. Only beneficiaries who delay claiming until age 70 with high earnings history can receive the maximum. Others receive lower amounts.
Can I claim benefits early?
Yes, but claiming early reduces your monthly payment. For example, claiming at age 62 lowers the maximum to about $2,831.
What if my payment is late?
Check your bank details and scheduled payment date. If missing after three business days, contact SSA.