The Social Security Administration (SSA) has confirmed that only one Supplemental Security Income (SSI) check remains for beneficiaries in 2024. This payment will be issued at the end of December, scheduled to align with the 2025 calendar due to the first day of January falling on a holiday.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the payment schedule and eligibility details, along with a summary of how these payments work.
Payment Overview
SSI payments are typically distributed on the first of every month. However, if the first falls on a holiday or weekend, the SSA reschedules the payment for the preceding business day. This adjustment ensures beneficiaries have access to their funds without delay. For 2024, this rescheduling applies to the final SSI payment of the year, set for December 31st.
Eligibility for SSI Payments
SSI beneficiaries receive payments based on several factors, including income, resources, and specific eligibility categories. The primary eligibility categories are:
- Individual SSI Beneficiaries: Receive a monthly average of $943.
- Couples Receiving SSI: Eligible couples may receive up to $1,415 per month.
- Essential Person Category: Certain individuals living with eligible SSI recipients can receive an additional $472.
The 2024 COLA Adjustment Impact
Beneficiaries will see an increase in their payments due to the 2.5% cost of living adjustment (COLA) set for 2025. This adjustment is already reflected in the December 31st SSI payment, as it serves as an advanced payment for January 2025. Here’s a detailed look at the projected payment amounts for each category:
| Payment Category | Average Payment (2024) | Payment After COLA (2025) | COLA Increase | New Monthly Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Individual | $943 | $967 | $24 | $967 |
| Couples | $1,415 | $1,450 | $35 | $1,450 |
| Essential Person | $472 | $484 | $12 | $484 |
| Average Payment | $698 | $715 | $17 | $715 |
Additional Notes for Social Security Recipients
Beyond SSI payments, other Social Security recipients, including retirees, survivors, and disabled individuals, will also experience COLA increases in their checks beginning in January 2025.
The new payment amounts vary depending on factors like age and specific Social Security program enrollment. Beneficiaries can check their updated payment schedules and amounts via their My Social Security account.
When Will the Last SSI Payment Be Issued?
The final SSI payment of 2024 will be issued on December 31st, accommodating the holiday schedule for January 2025.
Who Is Eligible for the Essential Person Payment?
An essential person is someone who has lived with an eligible SSI recipient since December 1973, was not eligible for state assistance at that time, and has not received SSI on their own or as an eligible spouse.
How Much Will the 2.5% COLA Adjustment Increase SSI Payments?
The COLA adjustment adds approximately $17 to the average SSI payment, with variations depending on individual circumstances.
What If the First of the Month Falls on a Weekend or Holiday?
When the first day of the month is a non-business day, the SSA moves the payment to the previous business day to ensure timely access to funds.
