In May 2025, some couples who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) could see their monthly payments double, reaching up to $2,900 in a single month. This is due to a unique exception in the calendar, where SSI recipients get two payments—one on May 1 and another on May 31.
This occurs because the regular deposit date, May 1, falls in line with the typical schedule, while the May 31 payment anticipates the June deposit, since June 1 is a Sunday. It’s important to note that this doesn’t mean recipients are receiving extra money—it’s simply a shift in payment dates that prevents delays when the official deposit date falls on a weekend.
Why Are There Two SSI Payments in May?
The reason for receiving two payments in May is simple: the Social Security Administration (SSA) makes the May 1 payment as usual. However, because June 1 falls on a Sunday, the payment for June is made earlier, on May 31.
This calendar exception allows the SSA to ensure recipients aren’t left without their monthly payments due to a weekend falling on the first day of the month. While it may seem like extra money, these payments are actually intended for different months—May and June—but they’re simply deposited together in May.
Eligibility for SSI in 2025
SSI, or Supplemental Security Income, is designed to support adults over the age of 65, people with disabilities, and those with very limited income and resources. To qualify for SSI in 2025, there are specific eligibility criteria that applicants must meet:
- Resource limits: Individuals must have less than $2,000 in assets, while couples must have less than $3,000. The primary home is not counted as an asset.
- Citizenship: Applicants must be U.S. citizens or legal residents. Those receiving SSI cannot stay outside the U.S. for more than 30 consecutive days.
- Income limits: SSI is meant for those with limited income. Any other financial support, such as a pension or Social Security, may reduce the amount of SSI a person can receive.
- Other requirements: Applicants must apply for other benefits like Social Security retirement or pensions and must not be in government-funded public hospitals or prisons.
Maximum SSI Payment Amounts in 2025
SSI payment amounts are adjusted annually to reflect inflation. For 2025, the maximum monthly SSI payments are:
- $967 for individuals
- $1,450 for couples
However, if an individual receives other forms of financial support, such as Social Security, their SSI payment may be reduced. Payments are typically made through direct deposit or via a Direct Express debit card.
The double payment scenario in May (one on May 1 and another on May 31) will not change the total amount of money an individual or couple is allocated for the year—it simply moves some of June’s payment into May.
Can You Receive Both SSI and SSDI?
Yes, it’s possible for some people to receive both Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) at the same time. This happens when a person meets two conditions:
- They have a disability recognized by Social Security.
- Their income and resources are very low.
If you qualify for SSDI (typically requiring at least five years of work history in the past decade) but still fall below the financial thresholds for SSI, you might qualify for both. For example, if your SSDI payment is $800 per month but the maximum SSI payment is $967, you could receive an additional $167 from SSI.
However, the total combined amount cannot exceed the SSI maximum, and you must report any changes in income or resources to avoid fines.
Who Usually Qualifies for SSI?
SSI is often available to:
- Individuals with severe disabilities who haven’t been able to work enough years to qualify for SSDI.
- Retirees with very low pensions and minimal savings.
- Workers in informal or temporary jobs who didn’t contribute enough to Social Security to qualify for SSDI.
If you think you might qualify for SSI or both SSI and SSDI, it’s best to contact the Social Security Administration (SSA). They will review your case and calculate the benefits you’re entitled to, but keep in mind that this process requires patience and accurate documentation, such as work history and medical reports.
The double SSI payment in May 2025 is a unique situation where couples could receive up to $2,900 in a single month, but it’s important to understand that these payments are not extra—they are simply adjusted due to the calendar. SSI provides crucial support for those who meet eligibility requirements, offering financial assistance to those with limited income and resources.
Additionally, some people may qualify for both SSI and SSDI, providing “double support” for individuals who have a disability and limited work history. If you think you qualify for either benefit, it’s essential to contact Social Security for a review of your case.
