If you receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you may have noticed that there was no payment in March 2025. But don’t worry — this was not a mistake. The Social Security Administration (SSA) follows a regular payment schedule, and when the 1st of the month falls on a weekend or holiday, the check is sent out earlier.
That’s why SSI recipients got their March payment on February 28, and will now receive the next payment on April 1, 2025. Let’s take a closer look at this schedule, the 2025 payment increases, and some new rules that could affect SSI beneficiaries.
Why Was There No SSI Payment in March?
The SSA pays SSI benefits on the 1st of each month. But if that date falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or holiday, they send the money early, typically on the last business day before the weekend.
In March 2025, March 1st was a Saturday, so the SSA sent out payments on February 28, 2025. This meant there was no deposit in March, but beneficiaries still received their 12 yearly payments. Some months may even include two payments, but that doesn’t mean there’s extra money — it’s just the schedule adjusting.
How Much Is the SSI Payment in 2025?
Thanks to the 2.5% COLA (Cost of Living Adjustment) increase that took effect in January 2025, monthly SSI benefits are a bit higher this year.
Here are the maximum monthly amounts:
- Individuals: Up to $967
- Couples (both eligible): Up to $1,450
However, not everyone receives the full amount. The actual payment depends on your income, whether you receive outside financial help, and if you share housing or bills with others.
Examples That Could Lower Your SSI Check:
- If you live with a friend or relative and don’t pay your share of rent or food, your SSI payment may be reduced.
- In some cases, the amount may drop to as low as $342.33 per month.
Some states, like California, also add extra SSI support. Be sure to check with your state agency for local benefits.
What to Do If Your SSI Payment Doesn’t Arrive
If your April 1st payment doesn’t show up, the SSA recommends that you:
- Wait three business days
- Check your bank account and My Social Security account
- After that, call 1-800-772-1213 or visit a local SSA office
- Bring your Social Security Number (SSN) and other documents if visiting in person
Some delays may be caused by bank processing times, especially after weekends or holidays.
New SSI Rules in Effect Starting March 31, 2025
Several important changes are now in place for anyone applying for SSI or other Social Security programs:
In-Person Identity Verification (Starts April 14)
If you do not use the My Social Security online account for applications or updates, you’ll now need to go in person and show ID. This is part of a new security policy to prevent fraud and protect beneficiaries.
If you already use the online platform, you can continue using it without changes.
Overpayment Recovery Process
If the SSA finds that you’ve been overpaid, they may withhold 10% of your monthly SSI check to recover the money. However, if you think this is unfair, you have the right to appeal.
Retirement and Pension Rule Update
A new law has now eliminated two rules — the Government Pension Offset (GPO) and the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP). These cuts used to reduce Social Security benefits for some federal and public employees. With these rules gone, some retirees will now receive higher monthly checks — and the increase is permanent.
Note: These rules do not affect SSI payments, but they do impact other Social Security benefits.