In November 2024, Social Security benefits for American retirees will be distributed according to a schedule based on recipients’ birth dates and specific eligibility factors. While some retirees received their payments on November 1, others will receive them on staggered Wednesdays throughout the month. Here’s a breakdown of the payment dates, amounts, and key considerations for retirees.
Payment Schedule
The Social Security Administration (SSA) issues retirement benefits in three separate payments based on beneficiaries’ birth dates. This schedule helps ensure payments are distributed in a timely manner without overwhelming the system.
November Payment Dates
- November 13: For retirees born between the 1st and 10th of any month.
- November 20: For retirees born between the 11th and 20th of any month.
- November 27: For retirees born after the 20th of any month, who also meet certain criteria (details below).
The earlier in the month you were born, the sooner your Social Security check or direct deposit will be issued. Those who received Social Security before May 1997 or who also receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are typically paid on the 1st of the month, while others follow the staggered schedule.
| Payment Date | Birth Date Range | Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| November 1 | All dates | Only for recipients from before May 1997 or SSI recipients |
| November 13 | 1st – 10th | For those born after April 1997 |
| November 20 | 11th – 20th | For those born after April 1997 |
| November 27 | 21st – 31st | For those born after April 1997 |
Payment Amounts
On average, retirees will receive approximately $1,921 per month in Social Security benefits. However, individual payments vary depending on several factors:
- Retirement Age: Retirees who wait until Full Retirement Age (FRA), generally 66 or 67, receive 100% of their Social Security benefits. Those who delay benefits until age 70 benefit from delayed retirement credits, increasing the monthly amount by up to 8% per year past FRA.
- Work History: Retirees who worked in Social Security-covered jobs for 35 years and earned the taxable maximum during those years may receive the maximum monthly payment, while those with shorter or lower-paying careers may receive lower amounts.
- Filing Age: Those who claimed benefits early, starting at age 62, will receive a reduced monthly benefit.
The maximum monthly Social Security payment amounts in November are as follows:
- Up to $4,873: For retirees who delayed benefits until age 70 and met the SSA’s taxable maximum earnings over 35 years.
- Up to $3,822: For those who claimed benefits at Full Retirement Age, receiving 100% of their benefit amount without delayed credits.
| Filing Age | Maximum Monthly Benefit |
|---|---|
| Filed at age 70 | $4,873 |
| Filed at Full Retirement Age | $3,822 |
| Filed at age 62 | Reduced amount |
Cost-of-Living Adjustment
None of the Social Security payments issued in November 2024 will include the 2025 Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) increase. This adjustment, aimed at helping retirees maintain their purchasing power amid inflation, will be a 2.5% increase starting in 2025.
The 2025 COLA-adjusted payments will be distributed according to the following January schedule:
- January 3, 2025: For those who received Social Security before May 1997.
- January 8, 15, or 22, 2025: For those on the staggered Wednesday schedule based on birth dates.
Factors Affecting
Several key factors affect Social Security benefit amounts:
- Work Duration and Earnings: Retirees with a longer work history and higher lifetime earnings typically receive larger benefits.
- Filing Age: Those who filed early at age 62 receive reduced payments, while those who waited until age 70 receive higher payments due to delayed credits.
- Additional Income: Some recipients, such as those with higher earnings, may be subject to the Retirement Earnings Test (for those under FRA), potentially reducing benefits.
Future Payments
For retirees, understanding the SSA payment schedule can make budgeting easier. This staggered schedule ensures that all recipients receive their benefits on time, even though some may receive them sooner than others. Additionally, as the new year approaches, retirees should be aware of the upcoming COLA increase that will adjust payments for inflation.
If you have questions about your benefits or need to update your personal information, contact the SSA or visit their online portal for assistance.
FAQs
Who gets Social Security on November 13?
Retirees born between the 1st and 10th of any month.
What is the max Social Security benefit for retirees?
Up to $4,873 for those who delayed until age 70.
When will the 2025 COLA be applied?
The 2025 COLA will start in January for all recipients.
How much is the average Social Security payment?
The average payment for retirees is around $1,921.
Why was the November SSI payment rescheduled?
SSI for December is paid early on November 29 due to a weekend.
