November brings important updates for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients, as well as those who receive Social Security and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).
With changes to payment schedules and the anticipated cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for 2025, there’s a lot to keep track of this month.
Here’s what you need to know about upcoming payments, the COLA increase, and key dates to remember.
SSI Payment Dates in November 2024
November 1, 2024: The First SSI Payment
The first SSI payment for November is scheduled for November 1, 2024. This will be the standard payment date for all eligible SSI recipients.
Normally, if you receive both SSI and Social Security benefits, you may have different payment dates. However, due to the scheduling of this particular month, retirees and SSDI recipients will also receive their payments on November 1.
This adjustment was made because November 3 falls on a weekend, and Social Security payments cannot be issued on weekends.
November 29, 2024: Early SSI Payment for December
There will also be an early SSI payment issued on November 29, 2024, which is the check for December.
Since December 1 lands on a Sunday, the Social Security Administration (SSA) has arranged for payments to be sent out on the preceding Friday, coinciding with Black Friday.
This scheduling can be a great opportunity for recipients to take advantage of holiday deals or manage expenses early.
Payment Amounts for November
The payment amounts for the November 1 and November 29 paydays will remain the same:
- Individuals: Up to $943
- Married couples: Up to $1,415
- Essential persons (those living with and helping eligible recipients): Up to $472
These amounts do not yet reflect the upcoming COLA increase for 2025.
SSI Payments with COLA from December 31, 2024
What Is the COLA Increase?
The cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) is a yearly increase applied to Social Security benefits, including SSI, to help recipients keep up with inflation. For 2025, the SSA has announced a 2.5% increase.
This boost is aimed at helping recipients cope with rising costs for essentials such as food, utilities, and medical care.
December 31, 2024: First Payment With COLA
SSI recipients will be the first to receive the COLA-boosted payment on December 31, 2024, which is the check for January 1, 2025.
This early release happens because January 1 is a holiday, and payments cannot be processed on that day. Recipients can expect to see the following new maximum amounts after the COLA adjustment:
- Individuals: Up to $967 (increased from $943)
- Married couples: Up to $1,450 (increased from $1,415)
- Essential persons: Up to $484 (increased from $472)
These increases will be reflected in the payments sent out on December 31, marking the start of the 2025 benefit adjustments.
Key Dates and What to Expect
| Date | Event | Payment Details |
|---|---|---|
| November 1 | SSI, Social Security, SSDI Payment | Up to $943 (individuals), $1,415 (couples), $472 (essential persons) |
| November 29 | Early SSI Payment for December | Same maximums as above |
| December 31 | First Payment With COLA for January 2025 | Up to $967 (individuals), $1,450 (couples), $484 (essential persons) |
Tips for Managing Payments
- Mark your calendar to remember the upcoming dates, especially if you rely on these payments to cover bills or other expenses.
- Set up direct deposit if you haven’t already. It ensures that payments arrive promptly, even if there are postal delays.
- Check your My Social Security account online to confirm your payment details and see any updates to your benefits.
Understanding the Impact of COLA
The COLA increase is a way for the SSA to adjust benefits according to the rising cost of living, helping recipients maintain their purchasing power.
The 2.5% increase will give a slight financial boost to millions of Americans, making it a bit easier to manage everyday costs like groceries, rent, and healthcare.
For individuals, the adjustment means $24 more per month, and for couples, it translates to a $35 increase.
Although this may seem modest, every little bit helps when you’re on a fixed income. This annual adjustment is critical for those who are retired, disabled, or living on limited resources.
Help Your Loved Ones File for SSI
The SSI program provides essential financial support for eligible individuals who are 65 years or older, disabled, or blind and have low income.
If you know someone who might be eligible but hasn’t yet applied, consider assisting them in filing. The application process can be completed online, by phone, or at a local Social Security office. Providing timely help can make a big difference, especially with the new COLA increase coming up.
FAQs
When is the first SSI payment in November 2024?
It’s on November 1, 2024.
Will there be an extra SSI payment in November?
Yes, there’s an early December payment on November 29, 2024.
What is the new maximum payment after COLA in 2025?
The maximum is $967 for individuals and $1,450 for couples.
When will the first payment with COLA be sent?
It will be issued on December 31, 2024.
How can I check my Social Security benefits?
You can review your benefits by logging into your My Social Security account online.
