Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients will receive their December payment early this year. Instead of arriving on December 1, 2024, the Social Security Administration (SSA) has rescheduled the payment date to November 29, 2024. This shift is due to scheduling conflicts as December 1 falls on a Sunday. This article explains what to expect from this early payment, including the amount recipients will receive and whether the payment includes the upcoming cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for 2025.
Payment Timing
SSI payments are usually sent on the first day of the month. However, if the first falls on a weekend or a federal holiday, the SSA reschedules the payment to the nearest business day. Since December 1, 2024, is a Sunday, the SSA has adjusted the payment date to Friday, November 29, to avoid delays caused by weekend banking hours.
Payment Amount
For those eligible for SSI and with no recent changes in financial or personal circumstances, the November 29 payment will be the same as the November 1, 2024, payment. Below are the average SSI payment amounts based on age and category:
| Beneficiary Group | Average Payment Amount |
|---|---|
| All SSI Beneficiaries | $697 |
| Beneficiaries Under 18 | $813 |
| Beneficiaries Aged 18-64 | $743 |
| Beneficiaries Aged 65 and Above | $574 |
These figures represent average amounts and can vary depending on individual circumstances. If a recipient recently experienced a life change, such as getting married or starting a new job, their payment amount may be adjusted based on their current eligibility and financial situation.
November 29 Payment
Despite the early payment, it will not include the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for 2025. The 2025 COLA, set at 2.5%, will apply starting in December, but SSI recipients will only see this increase in their payment on December 31, 2024. This increase aims to help beneficiaries manage inflation by slightly boosting their monthly benefits.
Other Social Security recipients, including those on retirement or disability benefits (SSDI), will not receive their 2025 COLA adjustments until January 2025. The payments will be issued from January 3 through January 22, based on each recipient’s payment schedule.
Reporting Changes
It’s essential for SSI recipients to report significant life changes that could impact their eligibility or payment amount. The following events should be reported to the SSA promptly:
- Marriage or Divorce: Changes in marital status may impact SSI eligibility or the amount received.
- Employment Changes: Starting a job, losing a job, or changes in income can affect payment amounts.
- Moving to a New Residence: Relocation could impact benefits if it changes household expenses or income.
- Household Income Changes: If household or family income changes, it may need to be reported to the SSA.
Keeping the SSA updated on these changes ensures that benefits are accurately calculated and helps recipients avoid issues with overpayments or underpayments.
Timely SSI Payments
SSI payments are essential for many low-income individuals, particularly those who are elderly or disabled, as they help cover basic living expenses. The SSA’s practice of rescheduling payments when necessary minimizes potential disruptions for recipients. The November 29 payment comes just in time for end-of-month expenses, which can be a relief for recipients relying on these funds.
In summary, while this early SSI payment date may seem unusual, it aligns with SSA’s protocol to prevent delays. Recipients can expect to receive their regular payment amount on November 29, with the COLA increase coming in the December 31 payment. It’s also a good time to ensure that all personal information with the SSA is current for accurate benefits in the future.
FAQs
How much will SSI recipients get on November 29, 2024?
SSI recipients will get the same amount as on November 1, 2024, on average $697.
Why is the SSI payment coming early on November 29?
December 1 falls on a Sunday, so the payment is rescheduled.
Will the November 29 payment include the 2025 COLA?
No, the COLA increase will apply to the December 31 payment.
Who needs to report changes to the SSA?
Recipients with life changes like marriage, employment, or moving should report.
When will other Social Security benefits get the 2025 COLA?
Retirement and SSDI benefits will reflect the COLA in January 2025.
