November is here, and Social Security recipients across the United States will soon see their monthly benefit payments deposited directly into their accounts. The Social Security Administration (SSA) delivers these payments according to a precise monthly schedule, ensuring recipients across various programs—retirement, survivor, disability, and Supplemental Security Income (SSI)—receive funds promptly. For those who claimed benefits before May 1997, or are eligible for SSI, today marks another payment day. Below, we outline what beneficiaries can expect from their November payments, including scheduled dates, amounts, and the anticipated Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) that will increase benefits starting in January.
Social Security Payment Schedule for November
The SSA has a strict schedule for Social Security payments, distributing over 70 million checks monthly. Here’s the November breakdown for each category:
- SSI Recipients: Payments for SSI recipients, who qualify based on income and resource limits, are sent on the first of the month.
- RSDI Beneficiaries (Retirement, Survivors, Disability Insurance):
- Claimed Before May 1997: RSDI beneficiaries who claimed benefits before May 1997 typically receive payments on the third of each month. However, when this date falls on a weekend—as it does this November—the payment is moved up to the first of the month.
- Claimed After May 1997: For beneficiaries who filed after May 1997, payments follow a weekly schedule based on the beneficiary’s birth date:
- Second Wednesday: Recipients born between the 1st and 10th.
- Third Wednesday: Recipients born between the 11th and 20th.
- Fourth Wednesday: Recipients born between the 21st and 31st.
- Additional SSI Payment on November 29: An extra SSI payment is scheduled for November 29, due to the first of December falling on a weekend.
Note: In case of delays, the SSA recommends allowing up to three business days before reaching out to customer service. Beneficiaries can check payment statuses and account details via the SSA’s online My Social Security portal, where financial statements and replacement Social Security cards can also be requested.
Average Social Security Benefit Payments
The amount each Social Security beneficiary receives depends on factors such as work history, contributions, and the age at which benefits were claimed. Below is a breakdown of current average monthly payments by program, including estimated increases for the upcoming COLA adjustment:
| Category | Average Monthly Payment | COLA-Adjusted Payment (2.5%) |
|---|---|---|
| Retirement Benefits | ||
| On Average | $1,900 | $1,948 |
| Age 62 | $2,710 | $2,778 |
| Age 67 | $3,822 | $3,918 |
| Age 70 | $4,873 | $4,995 |
| Survivor Benefits | ||
| On Average | $1,505 | $1,543 |
| Individual | $1,773 | $1,817 |
| 2 Children | $3,653 | $3,744 |
| Disability Benefits | ||
| On Average | $1,537 | $1,575 |
| Blind Recipients | $2,590 | $2,655 |
| Maximum Payment | $3,822 | $3,918 |
| SSI Benefits | ||
| On Average | $698 | $715 |
| Individuals | $943 | $967 |
| Couples | $1,415 | $1,450 |
| Essential Person | $472 | $484 |
Understanding the Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA)
Starting in January, Social Security benefits will increase by 2.5% to keep up with inflation, benefiting over 70 million recipients. The COLA adjustment is meant to protect recipients’ purchasing power in the face of rising living costs. Although the increase is modest compared to prior years, it still offers additional support for beneficiaries navigating inflation.
Sample Monthly Benefit Increases with 2.5% COLA
- Retirement Benefits:
- For recipients aged 67, the average payment will rise from $3,822 to $3,918.
- For those who start benefits at age 70, the amount will increase from $4,873 to $4,995.
- Survivor Benefits:
- Individuals receiving average survivor benefits will see a bump from $1,505 to $1,543.
- Families with two children receiving survivor benefits will experience an increase from $3,653 to $3,744.
- Disability Benefits:
- Average disability benefits will increase from $1,537 to $1,575, while blind recipients will see a rise from $2,590 to $2,655.
- SSI Benefits:
- Individual SSI recipients will see an increase from $943 to $967, while couples will go from $1,415 to $1,450.
When can beneficiaries expect their Social Security payments?
Payments are scheduled based on the recipient’s birth date and program. SSI recipients typically receive funds on the first of each month, with RSDI payments distributed on Wednesdays according to birthdate.
What is the Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for 2024?
The COLA for 2024 is set at 2.5%, meaning beneficiaries will see a slight increase in their monthly benefits starting in January.
How can beneficiaries check their payment details?
The My Social Security portal allows users to view payment histories, manage personal details, and download financial statements.
