The Social Security Administration (SSA) in the United States provides monthly payments to over 70 million people. These include retirees, low-income workers, and individuals with disabilities.
To ensure everyone gets paid on time, the SSA follows a schedule each year. In August 2024, an extra payment will be sent out because of how the dates line up. Let’s break down why this is happening and what it means for those receiving benefits.
Why Is There an Extra Payment in August?
Payment Date Adjustments
In August 2024, there will be an extra payment because September 1 falls on a Saturday. When this happens, the SSA issues payments earlier to avoid delays.
Since banks don’t process payments on weekends or holidays, the payment scheduled for September 1 will instead be sent out on Friday, August 30.
What Types of Benefits Will Be Paid on August 30?
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments typically go out on the first of each month. However, since September 1 is a Saturday, SSI payments will be sent earlier, on August 30.
Other Benefits
In addition to SSI, some other benefits will also be paid on August 30. These include retirement payments for Americans living abroad and those who started receiving benefits before May 1997.
Regular Payment Schedule for September
The SSA will stick to its usual schedule for most other payments in September 2024. Here’s when you can expect payments based on your birthdate:
- Born between the 1st and 10th: Payments on Wednesday, September 11.
- Born between the 11th and 20th: Payments on Wednesday, September 18.
- Born between the 21st and 31st: Payments on Wednesday, September 25.
Future Payment Adjustments: November and December Changes
November 2024
In November, there will be two changes to the payment schedule:
- November 1 Payments: Both SSI and retirement payments that usually go out at different times will be issued together on November 1.
- December Payments: The first December payment will be sent out on Friday, November 29.
December 2024
In December, there are more adjustments due to the holidays:
- Christmas Day Payment: Payments that are supposed to be sent on December 25 (Christmas Day) will be sent out on December 24, Christmas Eve.
- January Payments: People who usually receive payments on the 1st of each month will get their January payments early, on December 31.
The SSA ensures that everyone receives their benefits on time, even when payment dates fall on weekends or holidays. These schedule adjustments, like the extra payment in August 2024, help avoid delays and ensure that retirees,
low-income workers, and individuals with disabilities receive the funds they rely on for daily needs. By being aware of these dates, beneficiaries can better plan their finances and avoid any potential issues.
Why is there an extra payment in August 2024?
There’s an extra payment because September 1 falls on a Saturday. The SSA will send the payment early, on August 30.
Who will receive the extra payment in August?
People receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI), retirement benefits for Americans living abroad, and those who started receiving benefits before May 1997 will get the extra payment.
When will my regular September payment be sent?
Your payment will depend on your birthdate:
Born between the 1st and 10th: September 11
Born between the 11th and 20th: September 18
Born between the 21st and 31st: September 25
Will there be any other changes to the payment schedule in 2024?
Yes, there will be schedule adjustments in November and December due to holidays.
What should I do if I don’t receive my payment on the expected date?
If you don’t receive your payment on the expected date, contact the SSA immediately to resolve the issue.
