In the coming days, a significant number of people receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are poised to get an additional payment from Social Security this month. Single recipients are eligible for a maximum of $914. Mark your calendars for Friday, December 29, as this is when the extra disbursement is planned.
This occurrence of two payments in December happens due to a unique calendar arrangement that repeats periodically throughout the year. Owing to the New Year’s Day holiday, beneficiaries will see two disbursements in December instead of the usual monthly payment, with no payment scheduled for January.
Social Security SSI payment schedules and eligibility criteria
SSI payments are typically issued on the first of every month. If this date falls on a weekend or public holiday, the Social Security Administration adjusts by sending out payments on the preceding workday. This shift ensures that recipients still receive their 12 checks per year, one for each month.
To be eligible for these payments, recipients generally need to be 65 or older and meet certain financial requirements. However, the program also extends to those under 65, including children, who are either visually impaired or suffer from a significant physical or mental impairment that severely restricts their day-to-day functioning for at least a year or is expected to be fatal, as defined by the administration.
The amount each beneficiary receives varies based on their specific situation. The current monthly rate for individual recipients is $914. Couples who are eligible receive a joint monthly sum of $1,371. In cases where an ‘essential person’ – someone living with and providing vital care to an SSI recipient – is involved, they are eligible for a monthly payment of $458. It’s important to note that not everyone receives the full amount; individual payment details can be calculated using the Social Security Administration’s online tool.
Looking forward, beneficiaries can expect a 3.2% increase in their monthly payments next year, in line with the administration’s latest announcement. This increase reflects the SSA’s ongoing effort to adjust to the rising cost of living.
The SSI program began in January 1974 under the Social Security Administration. Since 1975, there have been regular adjustments to the payment rates to accommodate cost of living changes, demonstrating the agency’s commitment to preserving the financial security of its beneficiaries through evolving economic conditions. This history highlights the SSA’s dedication to adapting its policies to ensure the sustained value of SSI benefits for its recipients.