The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides essential financial support to millions of Americans, including retirees, people with disabilities, and survivors. In September 2025, eligible individuals can expect a Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payment of up to $967, adjusted for inflation with a 2.5% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA).
This payment helps cover basic needs like food, housing, and healthcare for those with limited income. In this guide, we’ll break down who qualifies, when the payment arrives, and how to apply, all in simple language to help you plan your finances.
What Is the $967 Social Security Payment?
The $967 payment is the maximum federal SSI payment for individuals in September 2025. SSI is a program that supports people with low income who are 65 or older, blind, or disabled. This isn’t a new or special payment—it’s part of the regular monthly SSI program. The amount increased from $943 in 2024 due to the 2.5% COLA, which adjusts payments to keep up with rising costs like groceries and rent.
Why Is the Payment Important?
This payment is a lifeline for millions who rely on it to afford essentials. The COLA ensures the money keeps its value despite inflation, helping recipients maintain their standard of living. However, not everyone gets the full $967, as the amount depends on your income, living situation, and other factors.
Eligibility for the $967 SSI Payment
To receive the $967 SSI payment in September 2025, you must meet specific requirements set by the SSA. Here’s a clear breakdown of the eligibility criteria:
Who Can Qualify?
- Age or Disability: You must be 65 or older, legally blind, or have a disability that prevents you from working for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death.
- Income Limits: Your countable income must be below $967 per month for individuals or $1,450 for couples. The SSA doesn’t count all income—things like the first $20 of most income, $65 of earned income, and half of additional earned income are excluded.
- Resource Limits: Your countable resources (like bank accounts or stocks) must be under $2,000 for individuals or $3,000 for couples. Your primary home and one vehicle don’t count toward this limit.
- Citizenship and Residency: You must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen (approved by the Department of Homeland Security) and live in the U.S., Puerto Rico, or the Northern Mariana Islands.
Table: SSI Eligibility Requirements for 2025
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Age/Disability | 65 or older, blind, or disabled (unable to work for 12+ months or fatal). |
| Income Limit | $967/month (individual), $1,450/month (couple). Exclusions apply. |
| Resource Limit | $2,000 (individual), $3,000 (couple). Home and one vehicle excluded. |
| Residency | U.S., Puerto Rico, or Northern Mariana Islands; U.S. citizen or qualified non-citizen. |
Payment Schedule for September 2025
The SSA follows a specific schedule to distribute payments, ensuring recipients can plan their budgets. For September 2025, the payment date is adjusted due to a federal holiday.
When Will the $967 Payment Arrive?
Since September 1, 2025, is Labor Day, a federal holiday, the SSI payment will be issued early on August 29, 2025. This ensures no delays for recipients. Other Social Security benefits (like retirement or disability) follow a different schedule based on your birth date:
- Born 1st–10th: Payment on September 10, 2025.
- Born 11th–20th: Payment on September 17, 2025.
- Born 21st–31st: Payment on September 24, 2025.
- Pre-1997 Recipients or SSI Dual Recipients: Payment on September 3, 2025 (or the prior business day if it’s a holiday/weekend).
Social Security Payment Dates for September 2025
| Recipient Group | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| SSI Recipients | August 29, 2025 |
| Pre-1997 or Dual SSI/Social Security | September 3, 2025 |
| Born 1st–10th | September 10, 2025 |
| Born 11th–20th | September 17, 2025 |
| Born 21st–31st | September 24, 2025 |
Why the Early Payment?
The SSA moves payments to the last business day of the previous month when the first of the month falls on a holiday or weekend. This ensures timely delivery, especially for those relying on direct deposit.
How to Apply for SSI
Applying for SSI is straightforward but requires careful preparation. You can apply online, by phone, or in person. Here’s how to get started:
Steps to Apply
- Gather Documents: Collect proof of age (birth certificate), citizenship or immigration status, medical records (for disability claims), bank statements, pay stubs, and details about your living situation.
- Choose Your Method:
- Online: Visit ssa.gov/ssi to start your application.
- Phone: Call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday.
- In Person: Visit your local Social Security office (appointments required starting January 6, 2025).
- Submit and Follow Up: Provide complete information to speed up processing. Disability claims may take 3–6 months, though some qualify faster under the SSA’s Compassionate Allowances program.
Tips for a Smooth Application
- Double-check your documents to avoid delays.
- Set up a my Social Security account at ssa.gov to track your application status.
- Update your direct deposit information to ensure timely payments.
What to Expect from the $967 Payment
The $967 payment is the maximum federal SSI amount for individuals, but your actual payment may be less based on:
- Other Income: Social Security benefits or other income may reduce your SSI payment.
- Living Situation: Living with others or in a state with supplemental payments can affect the amount.
- State Supplements: Some states add extra funds to the federal SSI payment, increasing your total.
Can You Receive Both SSI and Social Security?
Yes, if you qualify for both programs. However, your Social Security benefit reduces your SSI payment dollar-for-dollar after the first $20 of monthly income. Always report changes in income or resources to the SSA to avoid overpayments.
How to Ensure You Receive Your Payment
To avoid issues with your September 2025 payment:
- Verify Direct Deposit: Update your bank details in your my Social Security account to ensure funds arrive on August 29, 2025.
- Check Payment Status: Log into ssa.gov to confirm your payment schedule.
- Contact SSA if Delayed: Wait three business days after the expected date (August 29) before calling 1-800-772-1213.
Recent Changes to Social Security in 2025
The SSA introduced several updates in 2025 to improve benefits and services:
- 2.5% COLA: This adjustment increased the maximum SSI payment to $967 for individuals and $1,450 for couples.
- Social Security Fairness Act: Signed into law on January 5, 2025, this act eliminated the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO), boosting benefits for over 3.1 million people, including teachers, firefighters, and federal employees.
- Appointment Requirement: Starting January 6, 2025, SSA field offices require appointments for in-person services, including Social Security card requests.
FAQs About the $967 SSI Payment in September 2025
Why is the September 2025 SSI payment arriving early?
The payment is scheduled for August 29, 2025, because September 1 is Labor Day, a federal holiday. The SSA issues payments on the last business day of the previous month to avoid delays.
Does everyone receive the full $967?
No, $967 is the maximum federal payment for individuals. Your actual amount depends on your income, living situation, and state supplements.
Can non-citizens qualify for SSI?
Yes, qualified non-citizens approved by the Department of Homeland Security can receive SSI if they meet other eligibility criteria.
How long does it take to get approved for SSI?
Approval typically takes 3–6 months, especially for disability claims. Some cases may qualify faster under the Compassionate Allowances program.
What should I do if my payment doesn’t arrive?
Wait three business days after August 29, 2025, then contact the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 to check your payment status.
Conclusion
The $967 SSI payment in September 2025 is a critical resource for millions of Americans with limited income. By understanding eligibility, payment dates, and the application process, you can ensure you receive your benefits on time. The early payment on August 29, 2025, due to Labor Day, highlights the importance of staying informed about the SSA’s schedule.
Create a my Social Security account, verify your direct deposit details, and contact the SSA if you have questions. With the 2.5% COLA and recent policy changes like the Social Security Fairness Act, 2025 brings improved support for recipients. Stay proactive to make the most of your benefits and secure your financial stability.