Millions of Social Security recipients are eagerly awaiting their 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), which is set to help cover the rising costs of food, rent, and healthcare in 2026. However, not everyone will receive their increased payments at the same time.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) typically sends out payments on fixed dates each month, but when a scheduled payment falls on a weekend or holiday, it is moved to the next business day. Because January 1, 2026, is a federal holiday, some recipients will receive their payments early on December 31, 2025, while others will have to wait until January 2026 to see the boost in their Social Security benefits.
Why Some Will Get Their Payments Early?
The SSA typically sends out Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments on the 1st of each month. When January 1 falls on a holiday, like this year, the payment for January 2026 will be issued early on December 31, 2025. This early payment is designed to ensure that people who rely on SSI will receive their benefits on time, despite the holiday.
As Governor Kathy Hochul explained, “We want to ensure that recipients get their increased benefits as soon as possible, especially with the new COLA adjustment.”
Who Will Get Their Payment in December?
Nearly 7.5 million SSI recipients will receive their increased Social Security checks on December 31, 2025. This includes those who receive only SSI as well as those who receive both Social Security and SSI benefits. These early payments still reflect the 2.8% COLA increase for 2026 but are issued in December due to the holiday schedule.
Retirement Expert – Mark Davis, Senior Retirement Advisor, “For many retirees, the decision to rely on Social Security for their income is becoming more challenging with the increasing cost of living. The COLA increase helps, but it’s not enough to counteract the rise in everyday expenses. Retirees should consider supplementing their Social Security income with other sources of retirement savings, particularly if they plan to work while collecting benefits.”
What Is the 2.8% COLA Increase All About?
The COLA is a yearly adjustment made to Social Security benefits to help recipients keep up with inflation. For 2026, the increase is 2.8%, which is slightly higher than the 2.5% COLA adjustment for 2025.
This adjustment will help millions of Social Security recipients cover the rising costs of essentials such as groceries, rent, healthcare, and daily living expenses. The COLA increase will apply to all eligible recipients, including retirees, people with disabilities, and SSI beneficiaries.
Who Will Get Their Payment in January 2026?
While 7.5 million SSI recipients will get their increased payments in December, others will need to wait until January 2026. People receiving retirement, survivor, or disability benefits will see their new payment amounts in January, based on their birthdate. The SSA follows this payment schedule for January:
| Birthday Range | Payment Date (January 2026) |
|---|---|
| 1st–10th | Second Wednesday (January 14, 2026) |
| 11th–20th | Third Wednesday (January 21, 2026) |
| 21st–31st | Fourth Wednesday (January 28, 2026) |
So, depending on when your birthday falls, you may not receive your check until the middle or even the end of January.
Social Security Expert – John Brown, Former SSA Representative, “The timing of payments, especially with SSI recipients getting their payments early on December 31, ensures that people don’t experience financial disruption due to the New Year’s holiday. However, for those receiving retirement or disability benefits, it’s essential to understand that the SSA’s payment schedule is based on birthdates, so it’s important to check your specific date and plan accordingly.”
What Should You Do Now?
If you’re a Social Security recipient, here’s how you can stay prepared for the upcoming payments:
- Check your payment type: Are you receiving SSI, retirement, disability, or survivor benefits? Your payment date depends on your benefit type.
- Mark your calendar: Based on your birthday or payment type, note when your payment will be made (December 31 or in January).
- Sign up for direct deposit: This is the fastest and safest way to receive your payment. Direct deposit ensures that your payment is sent straight to your bank account.
- Visit SSA.gov: Stay updated on your payment status through the official Social Security Administration website or by checking your personal My Social Security account.
It’s important to stay informed and check the official SSA website to avoid confusion about payment dates. While everyone eligible will receive the 2.8% COLA increase, when you receive your money depends on the SSA’s payment schedule and your specific benefit type.
Final Thoughts
The 2.8% COLA increase will provide much-needed relief for millions of Social Security recipients, helping them manage rising living costs in 2026. While SSI recipients will get their payments early on December 31, others will need to follow the SSA’s payment schedule in January 2026 based on their birthdate. Stay informed and prepared to ensure that you get your payments on time.
FAQs
Why are some Social Security checks coming on December 31?
Due to the January 1 federal holiday, SSI payments are sent a day earlier, on December 31, for those who receive SSI benefits or both SSI and Social Security.
Does the December 31 check include the 2.8% COLA increase?
Yes, the December 31 payment reflects the 2.8% COLA for 2026, even though it is paid in December 2025.
Who gets Social Security payments in January 2026?
Recipients of retirement, survivor, or disability benefits will receive their increased checks in January 2026 according to their birthdate.
How can I make sure I receive my payment on time?
Sign up for direct deposit and regularly check your My Social Security account for updates on your benefits and payment schedule.