The Social Security Administration (SSA) has announced a double Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payment for August due to the first of September falling on a Sunday. SSI recipients will receive their payments on Thursday, August 1st, and Friday, August 30th.
This adjustment to the regular payment schedule happens occasionally, with the usual payment date being the first of each month. Besides the double payments in August and November, recipients benefit from a 3.2% increase in their monthly checks due to the cost of living adjustment (COLA).
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Importance of SSI Payments
SSI is a critical source of income for millions of low-income seniors aged 65 and older. These ongoing payments are vital for covering basic living expenses such as housing, healthcare, entertainment, and debt repayment.
Without these payments, many seniors, disabled individuals, and children would struggle to meet their monthly needs and might fall into poverty. SSI ensures that those with limited income and resources can maintain a basic standard of living.
Double SSI Payment in August
The amount of SSI payment varies based on income and type. Generally, the higher your income, the lower your SSI payment. However, not all income is counted. Some earned income can be disregarded, which means the SSA calculates your SSI based on a portion of your total income.
Here are the current federal base rates for SSI:
- Individuals: Up to $943 per month
- Couples: Up to $1,415 per month
- Essential Person (EP) Criteria: An additional $472 per month
Average Monthly Payments by Age Group
- Under 18: $814
- Ages 18 to 64: $742
- Seniors 65 and older: $574
Typically, SSI payments alone do not bring recipients above the federal poverty threshold. Even with the benefits, about half of all SSI recipients still had incomes below the poverty level in 2016. However, these payments significantly reduce financial hardship and the need for family assistance.
Upcoming Double SSI Payment
Aside from the double payments in August and November, here are the scheduled SSI payment dates for the upcoming months:
| SSI Payment Date | SSI Payment Day |
|---|---|
| May 31st (June 1st payment) | Friday |
| July 1st | Monday |
| August 1st | Thursday |
| August 30th (September 1st payment) | Friday |
| October 1st | Tuesday |
| November 1st | Friday |
| November 29th (December 1st payment) | Friday |
Qualifying
While both SSI and SSDI provide monthly benefits to disabled individuals, they have different qualification criteria. To qualify for SSDI, you must have made Social Security contributions through previous employment. SSI, on the other hand, is based solely on income and resource requirements without needing a work history.
SSDI benefits depend on your work history and are available to you and certain family members if you have a qualifying disability and sufficient work credits. SSI benefits are available to individuals aged 65 or older, or those with disabilities, to help cover basic living expenses like food, clothing, and housing, regardless of employment history.
FAQs
Why will there be a double SSI payment in August?
The double payment is due to the first of September falling on a Sunday, so the payment for that month is issued on the last business day of August.
What is the cost of living adjustment (COLA)?
COLA is an annual increase in SSI payments to help recipients keep up with inflation and rising living costs.
How is the SSI payment amount determined?
SSI payment amounts depend on your income and resources.
Can I qualify for both SSI and SSDI benefits?
Yes, you can qualify for both if you meet the income and resource criteria for SSI and have sufficient work credits for SSDI.
When will the next double SSI payment occur after August?
The next double SSI payment will be in November, with payments on November 1st and November 29th due to December 1st falling on a Sunday.