Overview

• The second wave of December Social Security retirement payments, up to $4,873, will be issued on Wednesday, December 18, for beneficiaries born between the 11th and 20th of any month.
• A third wave of December payments will be distributed on Tuesday, December 24, for those born between the 21st and 31st, due to the Christmas holiday falling on Wednesday.
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments for January, typically issued on the first of the month, will be sent on December 31 to account for New Year’s Day being a federal holiday.
• Retirement benefit amounts vary based on age and earnings, with maximum monthly payments ranging from $2,710 for retirees at 62 to $4,873 for those delaying retirement until 70.
• The Social Security Administration faces operational challenges, including a hiring freeze and potential service reductions, following Congress's denial of additional funding in September.