Ash
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has confirmed that Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments for July 2025 will be issued on Tuesday, July 1st.
This aligns with the usual payment schedule since the date falls on a weekday. In contrast, June’s payment was released earlier—on Friday, May 30th—because the 1st landed on a Sunday.
Although many recipients are familiar with monthly payments, the SSA is introducing significant changes by October 2025 that could disrupt benefits if no action is taken.
A new policy will impact how SSI payments are delivered—and failing to comply could result in temporary or permanent suspension of your benefits.
Federal SSI Payment Amounts for 2025
In 2025, the maximum federal SSI payment amounts are as follows:
| Beneficiary Type | Monthly Payment (2025) |
|---|---|
| Individual | $967 |
| Eligible Couple | $1,450 |
| Essential Person | $484 |
These amounts reflect the 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) applied in January 2025, which remains effective through December 2025.
Who Is Eligible for SSI Payments?
To receive SSI benefits, applicants must meet one of the following conditions:
- Be 65 years or older
- Be legally blind
- Have a qualifying disability that prevents substantial gainful activity
Additionally, the applicant’s income and assets must fall within SSA limits:
| Category | Limit |
|---|---|
| Countable Income | $967/month (individual) |
| Countable Income | $1,450/month (couple) |
| Resource Limit | $2,000 (individual) / $3,000 (couple) |
Countable income includes wages, Social Security benefits, pensions, and certain non-cash assistance. For every $2 in earnings above the $85 income exclusion, $1 is deducted from the SSI payment.
Assets include bank accounts, second vehicles, stocks, bonds, or any real estate beyond a primary residence.
Applicants must also:
- Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
- Reside in the 50 states, D.C., or Northern Mariana Islands
- Not be outside the U.S. for more than 30 consecutive days
Why Your SSI Payment May Be Suspended in October 2025
Starting October 2025, the SSA will stop issuing paper checks. From September 30, 2025, all SSI recipients must receive payments electronically, either through:
- Direct deposit into a bank account, or
- A Direct Express® prepaid debit card
This change follows a March 2025 presidential directive aimed at reducing fraud and saving taxpayer money—estimated at $657 million annually.
An estimated 485,000 to 494,000 beneficiaries still receive paper checks and may be at risk of payment suspension if they fail to make the switch.
What You Need to Do Before September 30, 2025
If you currently receive SSI payments via paper check, you must act before September 30, 2025, to avoid disruptions:
- Open a checking or savings account if you do not already have one.
- Apply for a Direct Express® card through the SSA if banking is inaccessible.
- Visit your local SSA office to update your payment method or get assistance.
Although a small number of exceptions may be granted, these are expected to be very limited and will require documentation.
Why This Change Matters
Failing to update your payment method could mean:
- Delayed or missed payments
- Inability to pay rent, utilities, or medical expenses
- Complications in reinstating benefits
This rule change disproportionately affects older adults without internet or banking access, especially those in rural communities. The SSA encourages early action to avoid financial disruption.
By October 2025, all SSI payments must be delivered electronically. Paper checks will no longer be issued after September 30, 2025.
To ensure uninterrupted benefits, update your payment method to direct deposit or Direct Express now.
FAQs
Why is the SSA ending paper check payments?
The move aims to reduce fraud and save money, with estimated annual savings of $657 million.
Who is most affected by the change?
Recipients who still receive SSI checks by mail, especially those without bank accounts or in rural areas.
What happens if I don’t switch to electronic payments by September 30, 2025?
You may experience a temporary suspension of your SSI payments until your account is updated with valid electronic payment details.