According to Lagradaonline, Some Social Security beneficiaries may notice an unusual activity on their calendars next month, specifically regarding the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) checks. Beneficiaries can expect an additional SSI payment in November, which may come as a surprise to those accustomed to a different payment schedule.
Understanding the Payment Schedule Change
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has a predetermined payment schedule for 2024, detailing various payment dates throughout the year. However, this change may confuse recipients who typically see their funds deposited at the beginning of each month. The explanation lies in the calendar: small changes can create uncertainty, especially for the approximately 7.5 million people receiving SSI benefits this year.
Why Two Checks in November?
SSI recipients are set to receive two checks in November due to scheduling quirks. Typically, SSI benefits are paid on the first business day of each month. However, since December 1 falls on a Sunday this year, the SSA will issue the December payment the Friday prior. Therefore, SSI checks will be distributed on November 1 and November 29.
What is Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?
Supplemental Security Income, commonly known as SSI, differs from Social Security retirement benefits. According to AARP, while the SSA administers SSI benefits, they are not funded by Social Security taxes. Instead, SSI is funded through the U.S. Treasury and state supplements. SSI aims to assist the elderly and individuals with disabilities. Eligibility criteria include having little or no income or resources, being blind or disabled, or being 65 or older. In 2024, the maximum SSI benefit is $943 for individuals and $1,415 for couples who qualify.
Differences Between SSI and SSDI
It’s essential to distinguish between SSI and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). SSDI provides benefits to individuals with disabilities who have previously contributed to Social Security through income taxes. In contrast, SSI does not require a work history, making it accessible to a broader range of individuals.
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COLA Increase for 2025
In early October, the SSA announced that the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for 2025 will be 2.5%. This adjustment means that monthly payments for ordinary beneficiaries will increase by approximately $50, rising to $1,957 from $1,907 in January 2024. The annual COLA is designed to help beneficiaries maintain their purchasing power against inflation.
Planning for November Payments
The SSA provides its annual distribution schedules well in advance, allowing recipients to plan accordingly. Several months in 2025 will feature payment patterns similar to November’s SSI quirk, so beneficiaries should remain aware of potential changes.
Streamlined SSI Application Process
The SSA also recently announced the rollout of a new, simplified application process for SSI benefits, known as iClaim. This online system will feature straightforward, plain language questions to facilitate the application process. Initially, not all applicants will have access to this new system when it launches. However, the SSA plans to expand availability in December for first-time applicants aged 18 to nearly 65 who have never married and are applying for both Social Security welfare and SSI. A further expansion to include all applicants is expected next year.
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