Did you know that in May 2025, you will receive two SSI payments? This isn’t a mistake, but rather a timing adjustment. The Social Security Administration (SSA) confirmed that, because June 1st falls on a weekend, that month’s payment will be moved up to May 30th. So, in May, deposits will be made on the 1st and 30th.
But be careful: this doesn’t mean extra money. The second payment is due in June and avoids delays. The SSA follows its protocol of moving payments when they fall on holidays. At the end of the year, the total is still 12 payments. If you’re a beneficiary, plan your budget knowing that June won’t have an additional deposit.
Maximum SSI amounts for May 2025
The amounts for 2025 are already set: $967 per month for single individuals and $1,450 for couples. This 2.5% increase compared to 2024 is intended to offset inflation. Although the figures are fixed, always check your account statement, as individual variations (such as income or changes in your situation) could affect your final amount.
The fact that May has two deposits can be confusing. Remember: the second payment (May 30) is for June. Therefore, there will be no transfer in June. At the end of 2025, the total will be $11,604 for individuals (12 x $967) or $17,400 for couples (12 x $1,450), provided there are no withholdings or adjustments for changes in your situation. These amounts are combinable with Social Security benefits, especially for retirees who lack sufficient income to cover their living costs and other basic needs.
Who is eligible for SSI? Requirements for eligibility
SSI is designed for people with limited resources. To qualify, you must meet at least one of these criteria: be age 65 or older, legally blind, or living with a severe disability that prevents you from working. It doesn’t matter if you’ve never contributed to traditional Social Security; federal taxes fund this program.
Additionally, the SSA requires you to meet strict financial conditions. Your monthly income and savings (such as bank accounts or non-essential property) must fall within federal limits. For example, in 2025, the resource limit for individuals is $2,000, and for couples, $3,000. Some assets, such as your home or car, do not count in this calculation.
Residency and immigration status are also key. You must live in the U.S. (or territories like Puerto Rico) and not be absent for more than 30 consecutive days. If you’re an immigrant, certain categories, such as refugees or permanent residents with 10 years of contributions, may apply. The SSA verifies all of this before approving your application.
Apply for SSI: simple steps
If you qualify, you can apply in three ways: online (if your state allows it), by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a Social Security office. Prepare documents such as identification, proof of income, medical records (if applicable), and proof of residency. The SSA will review every detail before giving the green light.
The process isn’t immediate. Timelines vary depending on the complexity of your case, but once approved, you’ll receive retroactive payments from the date you applied. If you’re already collecting benefits like Social Security retirement benefits or SSDI, you can still apply for SSI, as long as you meet the financial limits. The SSA will combine the two if possible.
What if you’re denied? You can appeal. The SSA allows you to file a reconsideration, request a hearing with a judge, or escalate the case to court. Many beneficiaries are approved at these stages, so don’t give up if the initial response is negative.
To avoid surprises, mark the official payment dates on your calendar. The SSA publishes these schedules each year on its website. You can also subscribe to email or text alerts. This way, you’ll know when to expect each deposit and can plan with greater peace of mind.
Future updates and changes to the SSI program
The 2.5% increase for 2025 isn’t final. Each year, the SSA adjusts the amounts based on the COLA (Cost-of-Living Adjustment). This index depends on inflation, so payments could increase (or, in rare cases, stay the same) in the coming years. Stay informed by checking official communications.
What if your income or resources change? You must notify the SSA immediately. A new job, an inheritance, or even moving in with someone who supports you financially can affect your eligibility. If you hide information, you could receive overpayments that you’ll later have to repay, in addition to possible legal penalties.
Finally, SSI is not incompatible with other programs. You can combine it with state assistance (such as SNAP or Medicaid), educational grants, or local support. Just be sure to report all of these resources when applying for or renewing your benefit, as some may count toward your monthly limits.