Every month, the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program distributes hundreds of millions of dollars to around 7.4 million beneficiaries who depend on these allocations to make ends meet and be able to cover their basic expenses, such as housing, food, transportation, or medications, among other items. That’s why the fact that the distribution is made on time and without errors is paramount, and the Social Security Administration (SSA) knows it.
Unlike other programs such as SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance), SSI does not require beneficiaries to have previously contributed to the Social Security system. It is designed to provide financial assistance to people with limited income and resources who are over 65 years of age, blind, or disabled.
There was no SSI payment in March: why did this happen?
SSA usually distributes SSI payments on the first day of each month. However, when this date coincides with a weekend or federal holiday, the disbursement is brought forward to the last previous business day. This mechanism seeks to guarantee that beneficiaries access their funds without interruptions because, as we said, millions of citizens depend on these funds so that their monthly budget covers everything they need.
In 2025, March 1st fell on a Saturday, triggering the adjustment protocol. Therefore, payments corresponding to that month will be made on Friday, February 28, as confirmed by the SSA. This means that there will be no separate disbursement scheduled for March, although beneficiaries will receive the full amount for the month.
Having explained this, it is worth noting that the next payment will take place on April 1, because it will be a Tuesday, and will not coincide with federal holidays either. The lack of a deposit in March 2025 is neither a bug nor a problem, but a direct consequence of the SSA calendar, and it will happen a couple more times this year.
Maximum SSI benefits: How much could you receive?
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) sets maximum payments of $967 per month for individuals and $1,450 for couples in 2025, according to the Social Security Administration (SSA). However, the actual amount may be reduced by factors such as personal income, family situation, housing conditions or other criteria. These adjustments seek to align benefits with the specific economic needs of each beneficiary.
SSI payments saw a 2.5% increase in 2025 due to the cost of living adjustment (COLA). Although this increase applies to everyone, the final amount depends on individual circumstances. For example, if a beneficiary receives other income or resides in households with multiple taxpayers, the SSA proportionally reduces the benefit. The entity emphasizes that these calculations guarantee equity in the distribution of federal funds.
Resource limits for eligibility
To qualify for SSI, applicants must not exceed certain financial resource thresholds: $2,000 for individuals and $3,000 for cohabiting couples. These resources include assets convertible into cash, such as bank accounts, stocks, bonds, or additional vehicles (more than one). Essential assets, such as a primary home or a daily-use car, are generally not considered in this calculation.
SSA emphasizes that these criteria ensure that the program prioritizes people with critical financial needs. Those who exceed the limits should review spending or asset restructuring options before applying, according to official recommendations.
