Typically, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits are delivered on the first day of each month. However, there is an unexpected change for next month: SSI beneficiaries will not receive their $943 monthly check in June.
If you are a recipient of this program, it’s crucial to understand why this change is occurring and how it impacts your payments. Remember, the SSI payments include a 3.2% cost of living adjustment (COLA) increase, which was implemented last year.
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SSI and Its Importance
The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides SSI benefits to approximately 5 million low-income seniors, disabled individuals, and children who meet specific eligibility criteria. SSI aims to provide financial assistance to these groups, helping them cover basic expenses such as housing, food, and healthcare.
These benefits, which include a COLA increase, help recipients keep up with inflation, ensuring their purchasing power remains stable.
Why the June SSI Payment Date is Changing
The SSA establishes an annual payment schedule for Social Security benefits, including retirement, survivors, disability insurance (RSDI), and SSI. Payments are usually made on the first day of the month unless it falls on a weekend or federal holiday. In such cases, the payment is moved to the preceding business day.
For June 2024, the first of the month falls on a Saturday. Therefore, the SSA has rescheduled the SSI payment to Friday, May 31st. This means recipients will receive two payments in May and none in June. This adjustment might seem confusing, but it ensures that beneficiaries still receive their due payments on time.
Upcoming SSI Payment Dates
Here are the upcoming payment dates for the SSI program:
| Month | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| July | Monday, July 1st |
| August | Thursday, August 1st |
| August (September) | Friday, August 30th |
| October | Tuesday, October 1st |
| November | Friday, November 1st |
| November (December) | Friday, November 29th |
SSI Payment Amounts
The amount of SSI benefits varies depending on income and filing status. Here are the typical payment amounts:
- Individual: Up to $943 per month if income and resource requirements are met.
- Couple: Up to $1,415 per month if income and resource requirements are met.
- Essential Person (EP): An additional $472 per month if EP criteria are met.
Eligibility for Essential Person (EP)
To qualify as an essential person, you must continuously live with the SSI recipient and not have been eligible for state assistance since December 1973. Essential persons are not eligible for SSI as individuals or spouses. Given the complexity of these requirements, consulting a financial advisor or Social Security specialist is recommended to ensure your application meets all criteria.
FAQs
Why will there be no SSI payment in June?
Since June 1st falls on a Saturday, the SSI payment is rescheduled to Friday, May 31st, resulting in two payments in May and none in June.
What is the cost of living adjustment (COLA)?
COLA is an annual adjustment to SSI benefits to help recipients keep up with inflation and rising living costs. Last year, the increase was set at 3.2%.
How can I find out my exact SSI payment date?
You can review the SSA’s official payment schedule or contact the SSA directly for detailed information about your payment dates.
What should I do if I don’t receive my SSI payment on the expected date?
If your payment does not arrive on the scheduled date, wait at least three mailing days before contacting the SSA.
Can I receive more than $943 per month from SSI?
Yes, depending on your filing status and income.