After the federal government shutdown in the United States on October 1, 2025, many social assistance programs have come to a complete halt, as was the case with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). However, payments from the Social Security Administration (SSA) have not experienced any disruptions since they have an independent budget. Thanks to this, the Social Security payment schedule for October 2025 includes retirement payments, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and survivor benefits.
Federal Government Shutdown in the United States
According to the Spanish newspaper El Mundo, “A government shutdown occurs in the United States when Congress fails to approve the federal budget or a temporary funding law before the start of a new fiscal year, that is, every October 1. In that case, the government cannot spend money on most of its activities because the Constitution requires that all public spending be authorized by law”.
This shutdown has caused the temporary dismissal of thousands of officials, as well as staff reductions in national parks and airports due to a shortage of air traffic controllers. While Trump dedicates himself to blaming the progressives, they defend their stance as they refuse to sign the Budget extension if the conditions of the Obamacare subsidies are not extended, in addition to demanding changes to the conditions of Trump’s tax law which aims to eliminate health coverage for thousands of Americans.
Consequences of the shutdown
As we have mentioned, the consequences of the shutdown are causing chaos at airports due to the lack of air traffic controllers, the closure of tourist hubs, and the collapse in any place where activity depends on government employees. Additionally, social programs and aid that rely on these budgets are also affected, such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which has been halted in many states. However, not all news is bad. Social Security payments have not been affected and will proceed as usual. This is possible because the Social Security Administration (SSA) relies on a completely independent budget, so its operations continue without interruptions.
SSA Payments for October 2025
One of the key dates for this October is Wednesday, October 22, as this will be when payments are made to retirement, disability, or survivor beneficiaries. The official Social Security payment schedule states that individuals born between the 21st and 31st of each month, who meet the eligibility requirements of each program, will receive their deposit on October 22. According to the Social Security schedule, which makes payments on the second, third, and fourth Wednesday of each month, this payment corresponds to the fourth and final payment of the month.
What benefits will be paid?
- Retirement: Based on the worker’s employment history.
- Disability Insurance (SSDI): For individuals who cannot work due to a medical condition.
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI): For older adults, blind individuals, or those with disabilities with limited income.
- Benefits for survivors: For family members of deceased workers who contributed to Social Security.
What is the amount to be received according to the aid?
Each aid has an average income, which varies depending on eligibility criteria and the personal conditions of each individual. Here is an average amount to be received by beneficiaries depending on the social assistance they receive:
- Retirement: The average payment is $2,008.31. The maximum can reach $5,108 for those who had high earnings and delayed retirement until age 70.
- SSDI and survivors: Amounts depend on the worker’s earnings history.
- SSI: The average payment is $717.84, as this program is designed as a supplement for people with limited income.