November’s Double SSI Payments: Why Recipients Will See No Checks in December

Spread the love

Some Social Security beneficiaries may have noticed an unusual adjustment in next month’s schedule: an extra Supplemental Security Income (SSI) check is set to be distributed in November.

What to Expect in November

While this change may not surprise those closely following the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) 2024 payment timetable, it could cause confusion for those accustomed to receiving only one payment per month. With about 7.5 million people relying on SSI benefits in 2024, even a minor scheduling adjustment can trigger uncertainty.

The reason for two checks in November is tied to the calendar. However, this quirk will also lead to a month without an SSI check in December. This pattern is reminiscent of August when recipients received two checks and no payment in September.

Schedule for November SSI Payments

Due to the scheduling quirk, SSI recipients will receive two checks in November:

  • Friday, Nov. 1
  • Friday, Nov. 29

Understanding SSI Benefits

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is distinct from Social Security retirement benefits. According to AARP, while the SSA administers SSI benefits, it does not fund them. Social Security benefits primarily come from income taxes, whereas SSI is financed by the U.S. Treasury and state supplements.

SSI is designed to support low-income seniors and individuals with disabilities who meet certain income thresholds. Eligibility criteria include:

  • Little or no income
  • Little or no resources
  • A disability, blindness, or being age 65 or older

In 2024, the maximum monthly benefit for individuals is $943 and $1,415 for couples if both qualify.

Key Differences Between SSI and SSDI

It’s important to note that SSI differs from what is commonly referred to as disability or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), which depends on work history. SSDI provides benefits to those who have disabilities and have contributed to Social Security through income taxes over their working years. Conversely, SSI does not require a work history.

Upcoming Social Security Payment Schedule

The SSA publishes its annual distribution schedules in advance. For those planning ahead, the 2025 calendar has already been released and will feature some months with a similar payment pattern to November 2024.

For traditional Social Security retirement benefits, payments are scheduled as follows:

  • Wednesday, Nov. 13: Birth dates between the 1st and 10th of the month
  • Wednesday, Nov. 20: Birth dates between the 11th and 20th of the month
  • Wednesday, Nov. 27: Birth dates between the 21st and 31st of the month

Streamlined SSI Application Process

In addition to the payment schedule changes, the SSA recently announced a new, simplified process for applying for SSI benefits, set to launch later this year.

The new online system, known as iClaim, will feature straightforward, plain-language questions to help speed up the application process for both applicants and claims processors. However, not all applicants will have immediate access when the system rolls out. The initial phase will be available in December for first-time applicants aged 18 to nearly 65 who have never married and are applying for both Social Security and SSI benefits. A broader rollout for all applicants is planned for 2025.

Source

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *