Millions of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients are facing a gap in payments as Social Security confirms no more SSI checks until October 2024.
This adjustment is due to the payment schedule, which avoids sending payments on weekends or holidays, resulting in advanced payments. Here’s everything you need to know about these changes.
Why No Payments in September?
SSI payments are typically issued on the 1st of each month. However, if the 1st falls on a weekend or a federal holiday, payments are sent on the preceding business day.
In August, SSI payments were delivered on August 29th to cover September’s benefits since September 1st was a weekend. As a result, there will be no payments during September, and the next scheduled check will arrive on October 1st, 2024.
Upcoming Payment Dates
| Month | SSI Payment Date | Advance Payment |
|---|---|---|
| August | August 1st, 2024 | August 29th (for September) |
| September | No Payment | |
| October | October 1st, 2024 | October 31st (for November) |
| November | No Payment | |
| December | December 1st, 2024 | December 31st (for January 2025) |
These shifts are a result of the SSA’s policy to send payments earlier when the 1st of the month falls on a weekend or holiday.
How Much Will You Receive?
The average SSI payment is around $698, though the exact amount varies based on individual circumstances. Some individuals may receive up to $943 per month, while couples may get up to $1,415. These amounts are adjusted based on income, resources, and eligibility status.
Changes Coming in October
Beginning in October, the Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) will be announced, likely increasing benefits. Additionally, new rules will exclude certain types of food assistance from being considered as income, which means more people will qualify for benefits.
Thousands of beneficiaries who were previously ineligible due to receiving help from family or friends may now qualify for SSI. This regulatory change, starting on September 30, 2024, removes a significant barrier to accessing SSI benefits.
What Should Beneficiaries Expect?
- No payments in September: The last SSI payment for September was made on August 29th.
- October SSI payment on October 1st: Recipients will get their benefits as scheduled.
- COLA and new regulations: Changes in food assistance regulations will enable more people to qualify for SSI, and the COLA increase will take effect from January 2025.
Conclusion
Though there will be no SSI payments in September 2024, beneficiaries should not worry as this is due to scheduling quirks. Payments will resume on October 1st, and important regulatory changes will take effect to expand SSI eligibility. Be prepared for future adjustments, especially regarding COLA increases.
FAQs
1. Why aren’t there SSI payments in September?
SSI payments are sent in advance when the 1st of the month falls on a weekend or holiday. For September, payments were issued on August 29th.
2. When is the next SSI payment?
The next SSI payment is scheduled for October 1st, 2024.
3. How much will SSI recipients receive in October?
Most recipients will receive around $698, though some may receive up to $943, depending on individual circumstances.
4. What changes are happening in October?
New rules regarding food assistance will allow more individuals to qualify for SSI, and a potential COLA increase will be announced.
5. When will COLA increases take effect?
The COLA increase will be announced in October and take effect from January 2025.
References
- Social Security Administration Payment Schedule 2024
- COLA Adjustment Information 2024
- New SSI Eligibility Rules Explained
