December has begun, and many Supplemental Security Income (SSI) beneficiaries might have noticed they did not receive their usual check at the beginning of the month. This change is due to the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) payment schedule adjustments.
SSI payments are typically distributed on the first of each month, but delays can occur when that date falls on a weekend or a national holiday. To ensure checks are sent on time and avoid delays in payments for necessities like housing and food, the SSA sends payments on the previous business day when banks are open and the U.S. Postal Service is active.
This month, instead of receiving the check on December 1, SSI beneficiaries were paid earlier on November 29, which coincided with Black Friday. Contrary to popular belief, Black Friday is not an official holiday. The change was necessary because December 1 fell on a Sunday this year.
Why SSI Payments Were Sent Early
Social Security’s SSI program is designed to support older adults with limited income, people with disabilities, and blind individuals. It is intended to prevent financial hardship and homelessness by providing a financial safety net.
Unlike other Social Security benefits, SSI is compatible with other forms of assistance, but there are rules to keep in mind. The maximum monthly SSI payment is $943 for individuals and $1,415 for couples. Starting in January, these numbers will increase by 2.5% due to a cost-of-living adjustment—rising to $967 and $1,450, respectively.
However, not all recipients receive the full maximum amount due to income or other financial factors.
How Income Affects SSI Payments
There are specific income limits that can lead to reduced SSI benefits:
- Work Income: Individuals earning more than $1,971 per month will see their SSI payment reduced. For every $2 earned from work, $1 is subtracted from monthly benefits.
- Other Income: Non-work income like pensions, unemployment payments, or disability benefits also affects SSI payments. For every $1 earned from these sources, a $1 reduction is applied.
- Resource Limits: Individuals are limited to having $2,000 in resources, while couples may have up to $3,000. Parents applying on behalf of disabled children can have higher limits.
Additionally, factors like your spouse’s income, living situation, and state-level financial support may influence the amount of benefits you receive.
Next SSI Payment
Although there was no regular SSI check for December, there will still be a payment for the month. This will instead be sent in time for January, arriving on Tuesday, December 31. This change is necessary because New Year’s Day, January 1, is a national holiday when banks and mail services are closed.
Understanding SSI
SSI provides critical financial support for those with disabilities, blindness, or financial struggles. While the maximum monthly payment is $943 (individuals) or $1,415 (couples), the actual amount most recipients receive can vary based on their income and financial situation.
These adjustments highlight the importance of understanding SSI’s rules and payment schedules. Beneficiaries should plan accordingly, especially during changes around national holidays and adjustments to benefit payments.