As the Social Security Administration (SSA) prepares for the 2025 COLA (Cost-of-Living Adjustment) increase announcement, beneficiaries can now check the October 2024 payment schedule.
The SSA provides benefits to over 66 million Americans, including Supplemental Security Income (SSI), retirement, and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) recipients.
Below is the complete guide on when to expect your payments in October 2024 and what to anticipate with the upcoming COLA increase.
Social Security Payment Schedule for October 2024
October 2024 payment dates vary depending on the type of benefit you receive and your date of birth. Here’s the complete breakdown:
- SSI Recipients: The payment is scheduled for October 1, with eligible individuals receiving up to $943 or $1,415 for married couples.
- Retirees and SSDI Recipients: Payment dates depend on your date of birth:
- If your birthday falls between 1st and 10th, you will receive your payment on October 9.
- If your birthday falls between 11th and 20th, your payment will be sent on October 16.
- For those born between 21st and 31st, your payment date is October 23.
Social Security and the COLA Increase Announcement
The 2025 COLA increase will be officially announced by the SSA on October 10, 2024. The COLA is expected to be lower than previous years, with current estimates suggesting a 2.5% increase, according to projections from the Senior Citizens League.
This adjustment reflects cooling inflation rates in the U.S., which has led to smaller increases in benefits compared to recent years. The COLA increase will not take effect until December 31, 2024 for SSI beneficiaries and January 2025 for Social Security retirement and SSDI recipients.
How the COLA Increase Affects Monthly Payments
The 3.2% COLA adjustment will raise monthly Social Security payments for millions of beneficiaries starting in January 2024. Here’s a look at how the increase might affect payments:
- Retirees: The average Social Security retirement benefit is $1,920 per month (as of August 2024). With a 3.2% increase, beneficiaries can expect an additional $61 per month, bringing the total to $1,981.
- Survivor Benefits: Average survivor benefits of $1,509 would increase by approximately $48 per month.
- Disability Insurance (SSDI): Recipients with an average monthly payment of $1,540 will see their benefit increase by $49.
Other Important Updates for 2024
- The maximum taxable earnings will rise to $168,600 in 2024, meaning workers earning over this threshold will not pay Social Security taxes on earnings above that limit.
- The earnings limit for workers under full retirement age (FRA) will increase to $22,320. For every $2 earned over this limit, $1 will be deducted from their Social Security payments.
- Medicare Part B premiums, which are often deducted from Social Security payments, are expected to increase in 2025. This may offset part of the COLA increase, with the final Part B premium amount expected to be announced in fall 2024.
Applying for Social Security Benefits
If you are planning to apply for Social Security retirement or SSDI benefits, ensure you have the necessary number of work credits. Additionally, you must file your application with the SSA and meet specific eligibility requirements to qualify for payments.
The process includes submitting supporting documents, such as your Social Security number, work history, and medical information if applying for disability benefits.
As the 2025 COLA announcement approaches, make sure to check your October 2024 Social Security payment date to avoid any surprises.
While the COLA increase for 2025 is expected to be more modest than previous years, it will still provide a slight boost to beneficiaries’ monthly payments starting in January 2024.
Keep an eye on official updates from the SSA regarding exact payment dates and further details on the COLA adjustment.
FAQs
When will the 2025 COLA increase be announced?
The 2025 COLA increase will be announced on October 10, 2024.
What is the expected COLA increase for 2025?
The projected COLA increase is around 2.5%, though the official figure will be confirmed in October.
What are the payment dates for Social Security in October 2024?
SSI: October 1
Retirees & SSDI: October 9, 16, or 23, based on birthdate.
How will the COLA increase affect my Social Security payments?
A 3.2% COLA could increase the average retirement payment by $61 monthly, beginning in January 2024.
Will the Medicare Part B premium increase in 2025?
Yes, Medicare Part B premiums are expected to rise in 2025, which may offset part of the COLA increase.