If you receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you may notice something different about your payment schedule in November. This year, there will be two SSI payments for November. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has made this change to align with the calendar. While this might seem unusual, it’s part of the SSA’s plan to ensure beneficiaries still receive their payments on time, even when certain dates fall on weekends or holidays.
Double SSI Payment in November
In 2024, some SSI recipients will receive two payments in November: one on the 1st and another on the 29th. This change occurs because December 1st falls on a Sunday. Normally, the SSA issues SSI payments on the first business day of each month. But when the first of the month lands on a weekend or holiday, payments are made earlier. So, November will include payments for both November 1st and a payment for December, issued on November 29th. This means that there won’t be an SSI payment in December.
A similar situation occurred in August 2024, where beneficiaries received two payments in September—one for September and one covering August.
What Is SSI?
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a program designed to help people who are elderly (65+), blind, or disabled and have little or no income. SSI is not the same as Social Security retirement benefits, even though both are managed by the SSA. SSI is funded by the U.S. Treasury and state governments, while Social Security benefits are funded by payroll taxes.
To qualify for SSI, individuals must meet certain criteria:
- Have limited income and resources
- Be 65 or older, or blind, or disabled The maximum monthly SSI payment for 2024 is $943 for individuals and $1,415 for couples.
SSI vs. SSDI
It’s important to know the difference between SSI and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). SSDI provides benefits to those who have worked and paid into the Social Security system and become disabled. SSI, however, doesn’t require a work history. It’s for those who are disabled, blind, or elderly with limited financial means.
Upcoming Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA)
For 2025, the Social Security Administration announced a 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), which will increase the average monthly payment for beneficiaries. This increase is designed to help beneficiaries keep up with inflation. In January 2024, the average monthly payment was $1,907, but by 2025, it will rise to $1,957.
November SSI Payment Dates
It’s important for SSI recipients to know when to expect their payments. For November 2024, here’s what you can expect:
| Date | Payment Details |
|---|---|
| November 1, 2024 | First SSI payment for November |
| November 29, 2024 | Early December SSI payment |
| December 2024 | No SSI payment (due to November 29th payment) |
Applying for SSI Benefits
The SSA is also making it easier to apply for SSI benefits with the new iClaim system. This platform helps people between the ages of 18 and 65 who are applying for both Social Security and SSI benefits. iClaim makes it easier for users to navigate and apply. The tool is being gradually rolled out, and more people will have access in the coming year. Until then, many applicants will need to use the traditional methods for applying.
Conclusion
Understanding the SSI payment schedule in 2024 is essential for beneficiaries to plan their finances effectively. With two payments in November and no payments in December, it’s important to stay informed and prepared. Additionally, the upcoming COLA increase and the iClaim system will make things easier for many recipients. Always keep an eye on the SSA’s payment schedule to avoid any surprises.
FAQ’s
Why is there a second SSI check in November?
The second check is because December 1st falls on a Sunday, so the SSA is issuing the December payment on November 29th.
How do I apply for SSI benefits?
You can apply for SSI benefits online using the iClaim system or through traditional methods if you don’t have access to iClaim yet.
How much is the SSI payment in 2024?
The maximum SSI payment for 2024 is $943 for individuals and $1,415 for couples.