The Social Security Administration (SSA) has scheduled two Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments for over 7 million Americans next month, due to an adjustment in the usual payment dates. Typically, SSI payments are distributed monthly to eligible low-income individuals who are elderly or disabled. However, a shift in the calendar will result in two SSI payments for November.
This temporary scheduling change may confuse some recipients accustomed to monthly payments. Here’s what SSI beneficiaries can expect in November, details about the SSA’s 2024 schedule, and an overview of a recent update to the SSI application process.
November SSI Payment Schedule
Generally, SSI benefits are issued on the first business day of each month. However, when the first day falls on a weekend or holiday, the SSA distributes the payment on the previous business day. This adjustment means that for November, SSI payments will be distributed on:
- Friday, Nov. 1
- Friday, Nov. 29
These changes are to ensure beneficiaries receive payments without delays. Additionally, recipients will see a third payment on December 31 since January 1 is a federal holiday. This advanced payment guarantees that SSI beneficiaries receive the scheduled January support before the New Year holiday.
Upcoming Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for 2024
Each year, the SSA adjusts payments based on inflation, known as the Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA). This year, the SSA announced on October 10 that a 2.5% COLA increase will apply to SSI payments starting January 2025. This means SSI recipients can expect the following monthly payments next year:
| Beneficiary Type | 2024 Monthly SSI | 2025 Monthly SSI | COLA Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Individuals | $943 | $967 | $24 |
| Couples | $1,415 | $1,450 | $35 |
| Essential Persons | $472 | $484 | $12 |
These adjustments help SSI beneficiaries keep pace with inflation, offering slightly higher benefits to cover rising living costs.
Qualifying for SSI Payments
SSI, unlike Social Security, is funded by the U.S. Treasury and is designed to assist those with limited income and resources, including both elderly and disabled individuals. SSI eligibility is based on several criteria, and potential beneficiaries must meet the following:
- Income and Resource Limits: Limited income and few resources.
- Age or Disability Requirements: Must be over 65, blind, or disabled.
- Residential Eligibility: Generally requires U.S. residency.
While SSI benefits don’t require a work history, recipients of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) must have an employment record. SSDI is a work-based program that provides benefits to individuals who have contributed sufficiently to Social Security through payroll taxes.
SSA’s New iClaim Application Process for SSI
The SSA recently announced a streamlined SSI application process aimed at making it easier for applicants to access SSI benefits. Set to launch later this year, the new iClaim system will offer simplified, direct questions, minimizing the time spent completing applications. Initially, the rollout will be available to specific first-time applicants, including those:
- Between ages 18 and 65
- Never married
- Simultaneously applying for both Social Security and SSI benefits
This new system, planned to expand in 2025, should provide better accessibility and efficiency in processing SSI applications.
