Social Security payments vary based on a worker’s history, earnings, and specific circumstances. The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers personalized benefits, and in September 2024, the average payments reflected those individual differences. Let’s find the average amounts for Social Security benefits, including retirement, disability, and Supplemental Security Income (SSI), as of September 2024.
Retirement Benefits
The average monthly payment for Old-Age and Survivors Insurance (OASI) in September 2024 was $1,837.79. This figure includes individuals who receive Social Security retirement benefits based on their earnings history.
For all retirees, the average monthly benefit was slightly higher, at $1,873.08. Retired workers specifically saw an average payment of $1,920, which represented a modest increase of about $1 from previous months. It’s important to note that these amounts do not yet reflect the 2025 Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA), which will take effect in January 2025.
Spouses and children of retired workers are also eligible for benefits. As of September 2024:
- Spouses of retired workers received an average of $909.23 per month.
- Children of retired workers received about $892.72 per month.
Survivor Benefits
Survivor benefits are available to the spouses, children, and parents of deceased workers. In September 2024, the average monthly payments for survivors were as follows:
- Children of deceased workers: $1,103.72
- Widowed mothers and fathers: $1,287.79
- Nondisabled widows and widowers: $1,785.33
- Disabled widows and widowers: $1,622.14
- Parents of deceased workers: $1,622.14
These payments provide vital financial support to families after the loss of a wage earner, helping them maintain stability during difficult times.
Disability Insurance Payments
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) provides financial assistance to those unable to work due to a disability. The maximum SSDI payment in September 2024 was $3,822 per month, but the average payment for all SSDI recipients (including workers, spouses, and children) was $1,402.44.
Here’s a breakdown of average SSDI payments by recipient:
- Workers with a disability: $1,539.84
- Spouses of disabled workers: $421.49
- Children of disabled workers: $492.46
These benefits are crucial for individuals and families affected by disability, helping them cover their essential needs.
Supplemental Security Income
SSI is designed to assist those with limited income and resources, including seniors, people with disabilities, and children. As of September 2024, the average SSI payment was $697.27. However, these averages vary based on the recipient’s age:
- Recipients under 18: $813.01
- Recipients aged 18 to 64: $743.77
- Seniors 65 and older: $574.99
SSI payments are generally lower for seniors, but they provide a crucial lifeline for those with little to no income.
| Benefit Type | Average Payment (Sept 2024) |
|---|---|
| Old-Age and Survivors Insurance (OASI) | $1,837.79 |
| All retirement benefits | $1,873.08 |
| Retired workers | $1,920 |
| Spouses of retired workers | $909.23 |
| Children of retired workers | $892.72 |
| Survivor benefits for children | $1,103.72 |
| Nondisabled widow(er)s | $1,785.33 |
| SSDI payments (workers) | $1,539.84 |
| Spouses of disabled workers | $421.49 |
| SSI recipients (under 18) | $813.01 |
| SSI recipients (aged 18 to 64) | $743.77 |
| SSI recipients (aged 65 and older) | $574.99 |
What to Expect
While the average Social Security and SSI payments provide critical financial support, they do not yet include the 2025 COLA increase, which is expected to take effect on December 31, 2024, for SSI recipients, and on January 3, 2025, for Social Security beneficiaries. The COLA adjustment will ensure that benefits keep pace with inflation, helping recipients manage rising costs of living.
FAQs
How much is the average Social Security retirement benefit in 2024?
The average retirement benefit in September 2024 is $1,920.
What is the average SSDI payment for disabled workers?
The average SSDI payment for workers with a disability is $1,539.84.
Do spouses of retired workers receive Social Security benefits?
Yes, spouses receive an average of $909.23 per month.
How much does a senior over 65 get from SSI?
Seniors aged 65 or older receive an average SSI payment of $574.99.
When will the 2025 COLA increase take effect?
The 2025 COLA increase will take effect on December 31, 2024, for SSI, and January 3, 2025, for Social Security.
