Overview of Social Security Payments December 2025
December 2025 is the last payment month before the 2026 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) takes effect. Beneficiaries should treat this month as a transition point, confirming year-end totals and preparing for the new payment amounts in January 2026.
This article explains payment timing, tax and withholding considerations, how COLA will change benefits, and practical steps you can take now.
When Social Security Payments December 2025 Are Paid
Social Security payments in December 2025 generally follow the same schedule used throughout the year. The date depends on how you receive benefits and your original benefit sign-up timing.
- If you receive benefits on a schedule tied to your birth date, check the Social Security Administration (SSA) calendar for December 2025.
- Beneficiaries who receive payments on the 1st through 3rd of the month will get their December payment on the usual day.
- Those receiving payment on the third of the month or on fixed dates should watch bank deposits late in the day or the morning of the payment date.
Direct Deposit vs Paper Check
Direct deposit is faster and more reliable than paper checks. If you still receive paper checks, allow extra processing time around the holidays.
Switching to direct deposit can prevent delays and ensure you receive the December payment before holiday closures.
How the 2026 COLA Affects Social Security Payments December 2025 and Beyond
The 2026 COLA will increase monthly benefits starting in January 2026. December 2025 payments are calculated without that increase, making December effectively the last month at 2025 rates.
You will see the COLA reflected in the January 2026 payment. Review your January payment statement to confirm the new amount and any changes to Medicare Part B or other deductions.
What Typically Changes With a COLA
- Gross monthly benefit amount increases by the COLA percentage.
- Medicare Part B premiums may rise and could offset part of the COLA for some beneficiaries.
- Taxes withheld are recalculated based on the new gross benefit if you have federal tax withholding elected.
Social Security announces the COLA in October. Once the COLA is announced, beneficiaries can estimate their January payments and adjust tax withholding if needed.
Tax and Withholding Considerations for December 2025
December is an important month for tax planning because year-end totals affect 2025 tax filings. If your benefit is subject to federal income tax, December’s payment contributes to your 2025 taxable income.
Review your withholding elections and estimated tax payments now to avoid surprises. If you expect a larger 2026 benefit, consider whether that will push you into a higher tax bracket next year.
Practical Withholding Steps
- Check your SSA-1099 information when you receive it early in 2026; it reports 2025 Social Security benefits.
- Use Form W-4V if you want to change voluntary withholding from your benefits.
- Consult a tax professional if you’re near thresholds where up to 50% or 85% of benefits become taxable.
Preparing for January 2026 Changes
Use December 2025 as a planning month. Confirm contact and direct deposit information on your SSA account and review benefit statements for accuracy.
Make a simple checklist to prepare for the COLA change so you know what to expect in January.
- Verify your direct deposit routing and account numbers.
- Confirm your mailing address for tax forms and notices.
- Note any upcoming Medicare premium changes.
Checklist Example for December
- Look at your December deposit and compare it to previous months.
- Save your December bank statement for records and tax purposes.
- Plan a budget that shows current income vs expected January 2026 income after COLA.
Real-World Example: Small Case Study
Jane is 68 and receives a monthly Social Security benefit of $1,600 in December 2025. The SSA announces a 3.5% COLA for 2026.
Her January 2026 payment should increase to approximately $1,656 before Medicare Part B and taxes. If Medicare Part B premiums rise by $20 per month, her net increase is about $36 per month.
This shows how COLA increases are sometimes partially offset by higher premiums or taxes, so planning is essential.
Common Questions About Social Security Payments December 2025
Will December payments include any COLA?
No. December 2025 payments are calculated using 2025 benefit rates. The 2026 COLA takes effect in January 2026.
What if my January 2026 payment looks wrong?
If you believe your January payment does not reflect the announced COLA or correct deductions, contact the SSA through your online account or by phone as soon as possible.
Final Practical Tips
- Use December to confirm your records and direct deposit details.
- Save December statements and compare them to January 2026 to confirm the COLA.
- If you have questions about Medicare premium changes or taxes, contact SSA or a tax advisor early in January.
Being proactive in December 2025 will reduce confusion when COLA increases start in January 2026. Simple checks now can prevent delays and help you understand your net income change next year.