This November, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients will see an unusual occurrence: two payments instead of the regular one. This change might seem surprising, but it’s simply a result of the Social Security Administration (SSA) adjusting its payment schedule due to the calendar. For millions of Americans who rely on SSI, knowing these adjustments can help with planning and reduce confusion.
Two Payments
SSI payments are typically issued on the first of each month. However, when the first of a month falls on a weekend or holiday, the SSA moves the payment date to the last business day before the first. In this case, December 1, 2024, lands on a Sunday, so the SSA will release December’s payment early on Friday, November 29. As a result, SSI recipients will receive:
- November’s regular payment on Friday, November 1
- December’s early payment on Friday, November 29
Since the SSA has already released December’s payment, recipients will not receive an additional SSI payment in December. This adjustment ensures that recipients do not experience delays, as payments are issued at the end of November to cover December needs.
SSI
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program that offers monthly financial assistance to individuals who are elderly, disabled, or face significant financial challenges. Unlike Social Security benefits, which are funded by payroll taxes, SSI is financed through the U.S. Treasury, with some states providing additional supplements to increase monthly benefits.
SSI aims to support those with limited income and resources. Eligible individuals typically include:
- Adults aged 65 and older
- People with disabilities or blindness
- Individuals with minimal income and few financial resources
The maximum monthly SSI benefit in 2024 is $943 for individuals and $1,415 for eligible couples. This amount helps cover essential living costs for qualifying individuals, ensuring they have a basic income for necessities.
SSDI
Although SSI and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) are both managed by the SSA, they have important differences in eligibility and funding. SSDI provides support based on work history and payroll taxes, while SSI is available regardless of work experience. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Program | Funded By | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| SSI | U.S. Treasury | Low-income individuals with disabilities |
| SSDI | Payroll taxes | Disabled individuals with qualifying work history |
Both programs aim to provide financial assistance to those with disabilities, but SSI is specifically for those with limited income and resources, making it accessible to more people, including those who haven’t paid into Social Security.
Payment Schedule
In addition to the SSI payments, other Social Security recipients receive their payments according to their birthdates. Here is the Social Security payment schedule for November:
- November 13 – Recipients born between the 1st and 10th of the month
- November 20 – Recipients born between the 11th and 20th
- November 27 – Recipients born between the 21st and 31st
Having a clear, predictable schedule allows Social Security beneficiaries to manage their finances more effectively, as they know precisely when to expect their monthly payments.
iClaim
To improve the SSI application experience, the SSA recently announced a new online system called iClaim, designed to streamline the process for first-time applicants. This system is expected to launch by the end of 2024 and is geared toward individuals applying for both Social Security and SSI.
Initially, iClaim will be available to single applicants who are aged 18 to 65, have never been married, and are applying for both Social Security and SSI for the first time. The system offers a simplified, direct application process that aims to reduce common errors and speed up processing. While iClaim will not be available to everyone immediately, the SSA plans to expand access over time, making it easier for new applicants to apply for benefits.
Payment Adjustments
In November, the SSA’s early release of December’s payment ensures SSI recipients are not impacted by potential weekend delays. Although December will have no SSI payment, the early November disbursement provides recipients with their benefit right on time.
Additionally, the upcoming iClaim system promises a more user-friendly application experience for those new to SSI, reflecting the SSA’s efforts to streamline services for applicants.
FAQs
Why are there two SSI payments in November?
To avoid a delay, December’s payment is issued early on November 29.
Will SSI recipients receive a payment in December?
No, the early payment on November 29 replaces the December payment.
How is SSI funded?
SSI is funded by the U.S. Treasury, separate from Social Security payroll taxes.
What is the maximum SSI benefit in 2024?
The maximum benefit is $943 for individuals and $1,415 for couples.
What is the iClaim system?
iClaim is a new, online SSI application system designed for first-time applicants.
