Upcoming Supplemental Security Income Payments What SSI Recipients Need to Know

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients will benefit from two payments in November, a shift due to the regular payment date for December falling on a weekend. This adjustment ensures that millions of individuals receive their benefits without delay, reinforcing the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) commitment to their financial well-being.

SSI is designed to assist individuals aged 65 and older with limited income, as well as younger individuals with physical or mental disabilities. Approximately 7.5 million people rely on these vital payments each month, with the maximum individual benefit currently set at $943.

Payment Schedule for November and December

In November, SSI beneficiaries will receive their usual payment on Friday, November 1. Following this, a second payment for December will be issued on Friday, November 29. This change is necessary because December 1 falls on a Sunday, and the SSA does not process payments on weekends or federal holidays.

The SSA reassured recipients that this does not constitute a duplicate payment: “You do not need to contact us to report the second payment,” they stated in a 2022 blog post.

Impact of Holiday Schedule on Payments

December will also bring adjustments to the payment schedule due to the Christmas and New Year holidays. Recipients of retirement benefits with birthdays between the 21st and 31st will see their payments arrive a day early, on Tuesday, December 24, instead of Christmas Day. Similarly, SSI recipients will receive their payment slightly earlier on December 31 to accommodate the New Year’s Day holiday.

Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for 2025

In a move to support beneficiaries amidst rising costs, the SSA announced a 2.5% Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA), effective January 2025. This increase aims to help SSI recipients and retirees manage their expenses, even as inflation shows signs of stabilizing. The first adjusted payments for SSI will be disbursed in December 2024, while retirement benefits will see adjustments starting in January 2025.

What to Do If Payments Are Delayed

For those expecting their payments, the SSA advises waiting three additional mailing days before reaching out if payments do not arrive as scheduled. This policy helps to alleviate unnecessary concern among beneficiaries.

As November approaches, SSI recipients should stay informed about these important payment changes and prepare for the adjustments coming in December. The SSA continues to prioritize the needs of vulnerable populations, ensuring that they receive timely and adequate financial support.