The vast majority of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients in August will welcome the cash infusion from two SSI checks instead of one. This sort of scheduling quirk happens when the September check falls on Labor Day; thus, for the single individual, two deposits of up to $967 each; in the case of the eligible couple, two payments of up to $1,450 each, an amount that hits $2,900 for August alone.
Why the extra check?
The SSI payments are generally made on the first day of each month. When the first falls on a weekend or federal holiday, the payment is advanced to the last business day of the preceding month. It follows then, since September 1, 2025, falls on Labor Day, that the September checks will be mailed early, on Friday, August 29, while August benefits will continue to go out on Friday, August 1.
The shift in timing means that there are no delays in benefits; it just seems, for the moment, like an extra benefit. However, recipients should remember that this is the early disbursement of the September benefit and not an added payment.
SSI payment schedule for August 2025
That is to say, when will they receive their money?
| Payment | Date | Purpose |
| SSI (August benefit) | Friday, August 1, 2025 | Regular August SSI payment |
| SSI (September benefit advanced) | Friday, August 29, 2025 | Early September SSI payment |
How much will you receive?
- Individuals: Federal SSI maximum benefit for an individual in 2025 is $967 per month and two payments up to $1,934 in August.
- Couples: Federal SSI maximum benefit for an eligible couple in 2025 is $1,450 per month and two payments is up to $2,900 in August.
Combined with state supplements, these amounts may still be greater for recipients residing in states that add to the federal benefit.
Who qualifies for SSI?
To qualify for SSI, applicants must:
- Be age 65 or older, blind, or have a qualifying disability.
- Have limited income and resources (e.g., countable assets of $2,000 or less for individuals, $3,000 or less for couples).
- Be a U.S. citizen or certain categories of noncitizen.
- Not reside outside the United States for more than 30 consecutive days.
The abovementioned criteria ensure that they qualify for the total maximum federal benefit; however, other income can reduce individual payments.
How about budgeting and financial planning?
The extra grant check in August can afford recipients the necessary leeway to meet their payments, rent, utilities, groceries, or medical expenses. But planning for September without an SSI payment is essential for beneficiaries:
- Budget accordingly: Putting some money aside from that extra August grant to meet September expenses.
- Keep tabs on accounts: Double-check that direct deposit is still set up on your mySocialSecurity account to avoid hanging payments.
- Keep updated: The SSA maintains a benefit payment calendar on its website for future payments that might be rendered early or delayed (October and December early payments).
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is this an extra benefit?
A: No. It’s simply the September benefit arriving early due to Labor Day.
Q: Will I still get 12 payments this year?
A: Yes. You receive 12 benefits annually; only the timing shifts in months when the first falls on weekends or holidays.
Q: What if I don’t get my August 1 payment?
A: Wait until August 2 (bank processing can vary). If still missing by August 3, contact the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 or check your bank details online.
Q: Can working affect my SSI amount?
A: Yes. SSI reduces benefits by $1 for every $2 of earned income after exclusions. Check SSA guidelines to understand how work earnings may impact your payment.
In August 2025, absolutely magnificent milestones for the SSI beneficiaries with two payments cumulatively amounting to $2,900 for qualified couples would give them a chance to take care of summer expenses while also planning ahead for the fall. If the funds are budgeted well, then that scheduling windfall can do all good without the amount being otherwise affected.
Read more: Bad news for Social Security retirees – Eight common mistakes that will lower your paychecks in 2025
