In May 2025, some Supplemental Security Income (SSI) beneficiaries could receive up to $2,900 in a single month. This applies to eligible couples, as the maximum monthly payment is $1,450 per couple. By receiving two deposits in May – on the 1st and the 31st – $2,900 would be accumulated due to this calendar exception.
But why are there two payments in the same month? This is not a mistake or a “gift” on the part of the Social Security Administration (SSA). May 1 corresponds to the regular deposit of the month. On May 31, however, it anticipates the June payment, since June 1 falls on a Sunday. This practice avoids delays when official dates coincide with weekends.
Having said all this, we clarify again that the funds are not extra cash: they correspond to different months, but they are concentrated in May.
Requirements to access SSI in 2025
SSI is intended for adults over age 65, people with disabilities or blindness, and those with limited resources and income. Eligibility criteria include:
- Resource limits:
- Under $2,000 in assets (accounts, non-primary property) for individuals.
- Under $3,000 for couples. It is not considered the main home.
- Citizenship or legal status:
- Be a US citizen, national or foreigner with legal residence.
- Do not stay outside the US for more than 30 consecutive days.
- Other requirements:
- Submit application for other available benefits (retirement, pensions).
- Not be institutionalized in government-funded public hospitals or prisons.
SSI payments: The maximum amount you can expect if you qualify
SSI maximum amounts are adjusted annually for inflation. In 2025, the $967 for individuals and $1,450 for couples include cost-of-living increases. Those who receive other supports, such as Social Security, have their SSI payment reduced proportionally.
Deposits are made via direct transfer or using the Direct Express debit card. In May 2025, beneficiaries will receive payments on May 1 and 31, without changing the annual total allocated.
Can you receive SSI and SSDI at the same time? This you should know
Yes, some people can receive SSI and SSDI at the same time. This occurs when someone meets two conditions: they have a disability recognized by Social Security and their income and savings are very low. It is like “double support” for those who, for example, worked for a short time or had low salaries in the past.
First, you must have worked long enough to qualify for SSDI (generally at least 5 years in the last decade). If your SSDI payment is very low—say, $600 a month—you may also apply for SSI, if you meet its financial rules: less than $2,000 in savings (or $3,000 if you live with your partner).
SSI acts as a complement. For example, if your SSDI is $800 and the SSI maximum is $967, you could receive an extra $167 per month. But be careful: the total will not exceed the SSI limit. Additionally, you must report any changes in your income or resources to avoid fines.
Who usually qualifies?
- People with severe disabilities who were unable to accumulate many years of work.
- Retirees with minimal pensions and little savings.
- Informal workers or workers with temporary jobs who did not contribute enough to Social Security.
If you think you apply, contact Social Security. They will review your case and calculate if you can receive both supports. Remember: this process requires patience and accurate documents, such as work history and medical reports.