In mid-2025, the Social Security Administration (SSA) announced plans for a new Security Authentication PIN (SAP) to take effect August 18, 2025. This PIN was intended for use when calling SSA’s national line to handle tasks such as updating addresses, checking claims, or requesting tax forms. Without it, recipients could still use the online portal or visit a field office.
After public feedback, the SSA decided to make the PIN optional rather than mandatory.
Payment Dates
Payment timing depends on the type of benefit and the recipient’s birth date.
| Benefit Type | Payment Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| SSI – August benefit | Friday, Aug 1 | Regular monthly payment |
| SSI – September benefit (paid early) | Friday, Aug 29 | Early due to Sept 1 Labor Day holiday |
| Social Security – birth date 1–10 | Wed, Aug 13 | Second Wednesday |
| Social Security – birth date 11–20 | Wed, Aug 20 | Third Wednesday |
| Social Security – birth date 21–31 | Wed, Aug 27 | Fourth Wednesday |
| Pre-May 1997 benefits or overseas | Fri, Aug 2 | Adjusted for weekend/holiday schedule |
Recipients getting both SSI and SSDI may see two payments on August 1.
Payment Amounts in August 2025
The 2025 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) increased benefits by 2.5 percent.
- SSI maximum for an individual: $967 per payment ($1,934 total in August with two payments)
- SSI maximum for a couple: $1,450 per payment ($2,900 total in August)
- Essential person benefit: $484 per payment ($968 total in August)
Amounts vary based on income, living arrangements, and other benefits received.
Who Qualifies
SSI eligibility:
- Age 65 or older, or younger with a qualifying disability
- Low income (under $2,019 per month for an individual) and limited resources ($2,000 individual, $3,000 couple)
- US citizen or qualifying non-citizen
- Not living in a public institution except for certain situations
Social Security retirement, disability, or survivor benefits eligibility:
- Sufficient work credits (typically 10 years)
- Disability lasting at least one year for SSDI
- Survivor benefits for spouses or children of deceased workers
Optional PIN from August 18
The SAP PIN is designed to speed up calls and improve security when using SSA’s phone line.
- Set up through a my Social Security account at ssa.gov
- Used when calling 1-800-772-1213
- Optional — you can still answer security questions instead
What to Do If a Payment Is Late
If a payment is not received:
- Wait a few days after the scheduled date for bank processing
- Check account details in your SSA account
- Contact SSA at 1-800-772-1213 or visit a field office if payment is still missing
Overpayment Withholding
Starting July 2025, SSA began recovering overpayments by withholding up to 50 percent of monthly benefits. Beneficiaries can request a waiver or appeal to reduce this withholding.
August 2025 offers double SSI payments for eligible recipients and follows the standard birthday-based schedule for other benefits. The new PIN option from August 18 adds an extra security choice without changing existing access methods.
FAQs
Is the SSA PIN required from August 18?
No, it is optional and can be set up online if desired.
Why are there two SSI payments in August 2025?
The second payment covers September and is paid early due to Labor Day.
What is the maximum SSI benefit in August 2025?
$967 per payment for individuals, $1,450 for couples.
When are Social Security payments made in August 2025?
Aug 13, 20, and 27 based on birth date, plus Aug 1 for some recipients.
What should I do if my payment is late?
Wait a few days, then contact SSA or check your online account.
