Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments don’t always arrive on the same day every month. The Social Security Administration (SSA) typically issues these payments on the first day of each month. However, when the first of the month falls on a weekend or a federal holiday, the SSA reschedules payments to ensure recipients receive their funds on time.
This December, the SSA will be issuing the SSI payment early, moving it to November 29, 2024. Here’s everything you need to know about this early payment, including average payment amounts and when the 2025 COLA increase takes effect.
December Payment
Because December 1, 2024, falls on a weekend, SSI recipients will receive their December payment two days early on November 29, 2024. This rescheduled payment will ensure beneficiaries don’t face delays due to the weekend.
SSI Payment Amounts
The SSI payment amount you receive on November 29, 2024, will be the same as your November 1, 2024, payment—provided there have been no changes in your personal or financial circumstances. For most recipients, monthly amounts are determined by eligibility status and financial need, which includes factors like income and living situation.
Payment Amounts
Based on SSA’s recent data, here are the average monthly SSI payment amounts:
| Recipient Category | Average Monthly SSI Payment |
|---|---|
| All SSI Beneficiaries | $697 |
| SSI Recipients Under 18 | $813 |
| SSI Recipients Aged 18-64 | $743 |
| SSI Beneficiaries Aged 65 or Older | $574 |
These amounts serve as averages, so individual payment amounts may vary. If you have recently had a significant change in your life, such as getting married or starting a new job, you are required to report this change to the SSA, as it may impact your SSI benefit amount.
Upcoming 2025 COLA Increase
One question on many recipients’ minds is whether the November 29 payment will include the 2025 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). The answer is no; the COLA increase will not take effect with the December SSI payment. Instead, SSI beneficiaries will see the 2025 COLA applied on their December 31, 2024, payment.
In 2025, the COLA is set to provide a 2.5% increase for Social Security beneficiaries, including those on SSI. While SSI beneficiaries will get this increase at the end of December, other Social Security recipients, including retirees and those on Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), will see the COLA adjustment reflected in their payments starting in January 2025. SSDI and retirement benefits are scheduled for payment from January 3 through January 22, 2025.
Eligibility for SSI
If you’re on a low income with limited resources, you may be eligible for SSI. The program provides monthly payments to help cover basic needs for food, clothing, and shelter. To remain eligible, it’s essential to keep your financial and personal information up-to-date with the SSA. Failing to report changes in your income, employment status, or marital status could affect your monthly SSI amount.
To apply for SSI or report any changes, contact the SSA or visit your local Social Security office.
With an knowing of the early December payment date and upcoming COLA increase, SSI recipients can plan accordingly. And with the 2.5% COLA increase set to arrive at the end of December, beneficiaries can look forward to a slightly higher payment in the new year.
FAQs
When is the December SSI payment in 2024?
The December SSI payment is issued early on November 29, 2024.
Will the November 29 SSI payment include the COLA?
No, the 2025 COLA increase takes effect on December 31, 2024.
What is the average SSI payment for beneficiaries?
The average monthly SSI payment is $697 for all beneficiaries.
When will retirees get their COLA-adjusted payment?
Retirees will receive COLA-adjusted payments starting in January 2025.
Who should apply for SSI?
Individuals with low income and limited resources should apply for SSI.
