The Social Security Administration (SSA) has announced exciting updates for retirees and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients. Two significant payments are scheduled to arrive before the year ends—on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.
However, not everyone will qualify for these payments. Beneficiaries must meet specific criteria, such as the timing of their benefits claim and their birthdates. Below, you’ll find all the critical details about these payments, who qualifies, and the expected amounts.
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Upcoming Payments from Social Security: Important Details
Two Payments Left in 2024
Each month, the SSA distributes millions of dollars in benefits to eligible recipients based on its official payment schedule. For December, there are two remaining payments:
- December 24th: This payment will go to retirees born between the 21st and 31st of any month.
- December 31st: This payment will be sent to those enrolled in the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program.
These payments are particularly notable because one of them includes the 2024 Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA), which provides a 2.5% increase to help beneficiaries keep pace with inflation.
Why Two Payments in December?
Typically, the SSA issues SSI benefits on the first day of each month. However, since January 1st, 2025, is a holiday, SSI payments will be issued on December 31st instead. This allows recipients to receive their increased benefits, reflecting the COLA adjustment, sooner. After this adjustment, Social Security payments will resume on January 3rd, following the regular schedule.
Social Security Payment Schedule for January 2025
Here’s a detailed breakdown of when beneficiaries can expect their payments in January:
| Date | Eligible Recipients |
|---|---|
| January 3rd (Friday) | Retirees, survivors, and disabled individuals who claimed benefits before May 1997. |
| January 8th (Wednesday) | Beneficiaries born between the 1st and 10th of any month. |
| January 15th (Wednesday) | Beneficiaries born between the 11th and 20th of any month. |
| January 22nd (Wednesday) | Beneficiaries born between the 21st and 31st of any month. |
| January 31st (Friday) | SSI recipients, since February 1st falls on a weekend. |
If a payment is delayed, the SSA advises waiting three mailing days before contacting customer service. Alternatively, beneficiaries can log into their My Social Security Account to view financial statements, manage their benefits, or address other related issues.
How Much Will Beneficiaries Receive?
Payments for December 24th
The payment amounts for those receiving their checks on Christmas Eve vary based on several factors, such as their work history, age at retirement, and Social Security taxes paid over 35 years. Here’s a breakdown:
- Early Retirees (before full retirement age): Up to $2,710.
- Retirees at Full Retirement Age (67 years): Up to $3,822.
- Maximum Contribution Earners: Up to $4,873.
Beneficiaries who contributed the maximum taxable amount to Social Security throughout their careers may qualify for the highest possible payment. On average, most retirees can expect a payment of $1,900.
Payments for December 31st
SSI recipients will receive benefits on New Year’s Eve, reflecting the updated COLA increase. Below is a comparison of SSI payment amounts, factoring in different COLA percentages:
| Category | Average Payment | With 2.5% COLA | With 2.6% COLA |
|---|---|---|---|
| Individuals | $943 | $967 | $968 |
| Couples | $1,415 | $1,451 | $1,452 |
| Essential Persons | $472 | $484 | $484 |
For many recipients, this adjustment means slightly higher benefits to cover the rising cost of living.
Steps to Take If Payments Are Delayed
Occasionally, Social Security payments may not arrive on the expected date. If this happens:
- Wait Three Mailing Days: The SSA suggests waiting at least three business days after the scheduled date.
- Contact SSA Customer Service: If the delay persists, reach out to the SSA for assistance.
- Access Online Resources: Beneficiaries can log into their My Social Security Account to review payment details and resolve issues.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the December 24th payment?
Beneficiaries born between the 21st and 31st of any month and receiving retirement benefits qualify for the December 24th payment.
Why is the SSI payment being issued early in December?
Since January 1st, 2025, falls on a holiday, SSI payments are being issued on December 31st to ensure beneficiaries receive their benefits without delays.
How does the COLA increase impact payments?
The Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) adds a 2.5% or 2.6% increase to benefits, ensuring that payments keep up with inflation.
