Supplemental Security Income (SSI) beneficiaries, including disabled individuals and older adults, are set to receive an additional payment in November.
This is not a bonus or benefit increase but a scheduling adjustment by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to ensure timely payments. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect and why this happens.
Why Will SSI Recipients Get an Extra Payment in November?
The additional payment in November occurs due to a shift in the payment schedule. Normally, SSI payments are disbursed on the first business day of each month.
However, when that date falls on a weekend or holiday, payments are issued on the last business day of the previous month.
For November 2024, beneficiaries will receive their December payment on Friday, November 29, because December 1 is a Sunday. This means SSI recipients will see payments on November 1 and November 29.
What Is the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Program?
SSI is a federal assistance program providing financial aid to people with low incomes and limited resources. It helps:
- Disabled adults and children
- Older adults (65+)
Unlike Social Security benefits like retirement or Disability Insurance (SSDI), SSI is funded by general U.S. Treasury revenues, not payroll taxes.
For 2024, the maximum SSI benefit is:
- $943 per month for individuals
- $1,415 per month for couples
A 2.5% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) in 2025 will slightly increase these amounts to help beneficiaries offset inflation.
SSI Payment Schedule for November
Beneficiaries should be aware of their payment dates to plan their monthly budgets. Here’s the SSA payment schedule for November:
- November 1: Regular SSI payment for the month.
- November 13: Social Security payments for birthdays between the 1st and 10th.
- November 20: Social Security payments for birthdays between the 11th and 20th.
- November 27: Social Security payments for birthdays on or after the 21st.
- November 29: December’s SSI payment due to schedule adjustments.
Differences Between SSI and SSDI
Though both programs assist disabled individuals, there are key differences:
- SSI: For individuals with limited income/resources, no work history required.
- SSDI: Requires prior work history and payroll tax contributions.
Additionally, SSI payments are adjusted for holidays and weekends, while SSDI follows a consistent schedule.
Changes to the SSI Schedule in 2025
The 2025 payment schedule will also see adjustments:
- January’s payment will be made on December 31, 2024, since January 1 is a holiday.
- No payments will be issued in March, June, or September because payments for February, May, and August will be moved to the last business day of the prior month.
These changes help ensure uninterrupted payments for beneficiaries.
How COLA Will Impact Benefits in 2025
The 2.5% COLA for 2025 is designed to help beneficiaries keep up with inflation. For example:
- The maximum monthly SSI benefit for individuals will increase to approximately $967.
- For couples, the maximum will rise to around $1,450.
This adjustment is crucial for maintaining purchasing power amid rising costs for essentials like housing and healthcare.
Understanding SSI payment schedules and program details is essential for beneficiaries to manage their finances.
The November adjustment ensures timely payments, while the upcoming COLA for 2025 offers additional financial support.
Staying informed about changes helps recipients plan better and address their needs effectively.
1. Why is there an extra SSI payment in November?
This happens because December’s payment date falls on a weekend, so the SSA moves it to November 29 to ensure timely delivery.
2. What is the difference between SSI and SSDI?
SSI is for people with low incomes, while SSDI requires prior work history. SSI payments are also rescheduled for holidays, unlike SSDI.
3. How much will SSI recipients receive in 2025?
With a 2.5% COLA, individuals can expect up to $967 monthly, and couples up to $1,450.
4. When will SSI payments be made in November 2024?
Payments will be made on November 1 and November 29.
5. Will there be any skipped months in 2025 due to scheduling changes?
Yes, there will be no payments in March, June, or September because of holiday-related schedule adjustments.