In the coming weeks, recipients of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) will be receiving the initial installment of two payments scheduled for December. These disbursements, issued by the Social Security Administration, could reach up to $914 for individuals filing alone, with the first distribution set to occur on Friday, December 1.
Due to the timing of weekends and holidays, there will be a second disbursement on Friday, December 29, substituting for the typical January payment, since New Year’s Day is recognized as a federal holiday. Additionally, essential persons — those residing with and providing vital care to an SSI recipient — are eligible for a monthly benefit of $458.
Understanding Social Security Benefit Eligibility and Payment Amounts
Eligibility for these benefits necessitates that recipients be aged 65 or above and conform to specific financial criteria. However, eligibility is also extended to those under 65 who are either partially sight-impaired or who suffer from a physical or mental condition that substantially restricts their ability to perform daily tasks for a continuous period of at least one year or is anticipated to lead to death, as stipulated by the administration’s guidelines.
The sum each beneficiary receives can vary based on their individual circumstances. The standard monthly benefit for single beneficiaries is set at $914. For couples that qualify, the combined monthly benefit is $1,371.
The actual amount received may be less than the maximum for some beneficiaries. To obtain an individualized projection of benefits, claimants can utilize the SSA’s online benefit calculator.
SSI benefits may also extend to children with partial blindness or a significant physical or mental condition that heavily impairs their daily activities for a duration expected to last no less than one year. This also applies if the child’s parents are non-recipients of SSI and have limited financial resources.
Looking ahead to the next year, it is projected that the monthly benefit amount will experience an increase of 3.2%, a rise that is also anticipated for standard retirement benefits, which are disbursed separately from SSI funds. For seniors eligible for both, these retirement benefits represent an additional source of income and are issued according to a distinct distribution schedule.