For those who receive Social Security checks, the month of November may be less pressing in terms of finances, but the month of December may pose some difficulties. This is what you need to understand about the changes in the payment schedule and why you need to plan your expenses properly for next month.
Why do social security recipients get two checks in November?
If you receive both Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, you may notice that two SSI checks are scheduled for November. This is not a bonus but rather a result of the way payments are scheduled. Since SSI payments typically arrive on the first of the month, but December 1 falls on a Sunday, the payment for December will be sent early – on Friday, November 29.
This shift means that recipients will see two SSI payments in November:
- One check early in the month
- Another check on November 29, accounting for December’s SSI
Will social security recipients miss a payment in December?
Yes, with the second SSI payment arriving in late November, SSI recipients will not receive their regular payment in December. This gap could create challenges, particularly if you are used to receiving a consistent SSI check each month. Understanding the SSA’s payment pattern and preparing accordingly can help offset any disruption.
Key points to remember:
- November’s “extra” check is an early December payment. It’s not a true bonus but simply arrives early due to the weekend timing.
- No SSI payment in December means you should budget carefully to manage any shortfalls.
What steps can I take to budget November’s extra payment?
With December’s gap in mind, it may be wise to set aside part of November’s second SSI check. Here are a few strategies that can help you stretch your funds through December:
- Prioritize your expenses. Review which bills and needs are most important and make sure they are covered first. This can help you avoid missing essential payments.
- Set aside a portion of the second November payment. If possible, reserve some funds from the November 29 SSI check specifically for December expenses.
- Plan for holiday spending. The holidays can lead to extra costs, so be mindful of any additional spending. Sticking to a budget can prevent you from coming up short in December.
How can I check the social security payment schedule?
The SSA publishes an annual payment schedule, which can help you stay on top of payment shifts like this one. Knowing the SSA schedule helps you plan for potential “double-check” months and months without checks. For example, similar situations will happen in 2025 with SSI payments, so it’s helpful to consult this schedule regularly.
You can find the SSA’s yearly payment calendar online, which details the dates for each check, including potential shifts in months with holidays or weekends.
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Will there be an increase in social security benefits for 2025?
Yes, Social Security recipients can expect a slight cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for 2025. According to SSA, the 2025 COLA is set at 2.5%, increasing the average monthly benefit by around $50. The COLA adjustment is designed to help Social Security and SSI recipients keep pace with inflation.
This increase, while modest, can help offset rising living costs, but it’s still essential to plan your budget carefully given the December payment gap.
