Did you know that you will get two SSI payouts in May 2025? This is not a mistake; it’s just a change in time. As promised, the SSA confirmed that the payment for June 1st will be moved up to May 30th because it happens on a weekend. That’s why payments will be made on May 1 and 30.
But watch out—this doesn’t mean more money. As planned, the second payment is due in June. When payments are due around holidays, the SSA moves them. This is how they normally do things. There will still be 12 payments at the end of the year. If you are a receiver, make sure your budget takes into account the fact that June won’t have an extra deposit.
The most SSI you can get in May 2025
$967 a month for a single person and $1,450 a month for a pair. These rates are set for 2025. The goal of this 2.5% rise compared to 2024 is to counteract inflation. Even though the numbers are set, you should always check your account statement because changes in your situation or income could affect the end amount.
It can be hard to understand why May has two payments. Don’t forget that the second payment, due on May 30, is for June. Because of this, there will be no move in June. If nothing is taken out or changed because of changes in your situation, the total at the end of 2025 will be $11,604 for people (12 x $967) or $17,400 for couples (12 x $1,450). These amounts can be added to Social Security benefits, which is helpful for retirees who don’t make enough money to meet their basic needs and living expenses.
Who is able to get SSI? Criteria for being eligible
SSI is made for people who don’t have a lot of money. You must meet at least one of these requirements: be at least 65 years old, legally blind, or have a major disability that keeps you from working. It doesn’t matter if you’ve never paid into regular Social Security; this program is paid for by federal taxes.
You must also meet strict cash requirements to join the SSA. There are government limits on how much money you can earn and save each month. These limits apply to things like bank accounts and non-essential property. For example, the limit on resources for a single person in 2025 is $2,000, and the limit for a pair is $3,000. Some things you own, like your house or car, don’t count in this figure.
Residence and legal status are also very important. You have to live in the U.S. or a U.S. territory like Puerto Rico and can’t be away for more than 30 days in a row. If you are an immigrant, you may be eligible if you are a refugee or a permanent resident who has worked for 10 years. All of this is checked by the SSA before they approve your application.
Simple steps to get SSI
You can apply for Social Security in three ways: online (if your state lets you), by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a Social Security office. Get things ready like your ID, proof of income, medical papers (if needed), and proof that you live in the country. Before giving the all-clear, the SSA will look over every little thing.
The process will take some time. When you get accepted, you’ll start getting payments from the date you applied, but the exact date will depend on how complicated your case is. You can still apply for SSI even if you already get benefits like SSDI or Social Security retirement benefits, as long as you meet the income requirements. If it’s possible, the SSA will put them together.
What if they say no? You can make a case. You can ask for a hearing with a judge, make a reconsideration, or take the case to court through the SSA. At this point, a lot of beneficiaries are accepted, so don’t give up if you get a negative answer at first.
Mark the official payment times on your calendar so that you don’t get caught off guard. Every year, the SSA posts these plans on its website. You can also sign up for alerts by email or text message. You’ll know when to expect each deposit, which will help you plan more easily.
The SSI program will get updates and changes in the future
The 2.5% rise for 2025 isn’t set in stone. The SSA changes the numbers every year based on the COLA (Cost-of-Living Adjustment). Since this measure is based on inflation, payments may go up (or down, very rarely) over the next few years. Check official messages to stay up to date.
What if you lose your job or your money changes? You need to tell the SSA right away. If you get a new job, an inheritance, or even move in with someone who helps you financially, it could affect your status. If you lie about something, you might get overpaid and have to return the money later, plus you might get in trouble with the law.
Last but not least, SSI does not work badly with other programs. It can be used with state aid like SNAP or Medicaid, educational funds, or help from your community. If you want to get or keep your benefit, make sure you list all of these sources because some of them may count toward your monthly limits.