Millions of Social Security recipients are receiving their Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payment for September 2024 today. Normally, SSI payments are made on the first of each month, but due to the calendar circumstances, this month’s payment is being issued today, August 30, 2024.
The payment will be sent based on the filing. Recipients who file individually can receive up to $943 per month; couples filing jointly can receive up to $1,415; and essential persons, those who provide SSI recipients with necessary care, can receive up to $472.
Early payment due to the holiday weekend
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has made this adjustment because September 1st falls on a Sunday, followed by Labor Day on Monday, September 2nd. To ensure beneficiaries receive their payments without delay, the SSA has moved the payment date to the last business day of August. This change is crucial for recipients who depend on timely access to their funds, particularly given the extended holiday weekend.
The SSA’s policy is to issue payments on the first of the month unless that date falls on a weekend or federal holiday. In such cases, the payment is moved to the previous business day. This year, the early payment means that recipients will receive two payments in August: one for August and one for September.
While receiving the payment ahead of schedule may seem like a financial bonus, it’s essential to remember that this is not an additional payment. The early disbursement is simply shifting the September payment to an earlier date. As a result, beneficiaries will not receive another payment until October 1, 2024. This creates a longer-than-usual gap between payments, which could be challenging for those who do not plan their finances carefully.
Who receives SSI payments?
SSI is a federal program designed to assist individuals who are disabled, blind, or aged 65 and older. These payments provide financial support to help cover basic needs such as food, clothing, and shelter. The program is vital for those who cannot earn a sufficient income due to their disabilities or age.
SSI recipients include:
- Individuals: Those who file as individuals will receive a payment of $943 for September.
- Couples: Married couples who file jointly will receive $1,415.
- Individuals with essential needs: individuals who require additional support, such as those living with a caregiver or in a group home, may receive an extra $472.
These payments are adjusted annually to reflect changes in the cost of living, ensuring that recipients can keep up with inflation and rising living costs.
Given the early payment, recipients should take extra care in budgeting their funds for September. The gap between the August 30th payment and the next scheduled payment on October 1st will be slightly longer than usual. This may require additional planning to ensure that funds last throughout September, especially for those who rely on these payments as their primary source of income.
How to verify payment details
Recipients who are unsure about their payment status or have questions regarding their benefits can access several resources provided by the SSA. The My Social Security online portal allows beneficiaries to check their payment history, update personal information, and access other essential details.
Additionally, the SSA offers customer support through its national toll-free number, 1-800-773-1213, between 8:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. local time from Monday through Friday. You can also reach out to the SSA local offices nearest to you.
