Social Security payments are essential for millions of retirees and disabled individuals who rely on these benefits to cover their living expenses. However, the payment schedule can sometimes be confusing, especially for those who are new to receiving benefits.
If you haven’t received your payment this week, and you qualify for the Retirement, Survivor, and Disability Insurance (RSDI) program, your payment might be scheduled for the last week of September. Here’s what you need to know about the upcoming payment dates and how the Social Security Administration (SSA) organizes its payment schedule.
Payment Schedule
The Social Security Administration follows a strict monthly payment schedule based on the date you were born and when you first claimed your benefits. If you were born between the 21st and 31st of any month and claimed benefits after May 1997, you’ll receive your payment on the fourth Wednesday of the month—September 25th, in this case.
Here’s how the payment schedule works for beneficiaries born in different periods:
- September 11th (2nd Wednesday): Payment for those born between the 1st and 10th.
- September 18th (3rd Wednesday): Payment for those born between the 11th and 20th.
- September 25th (4th Wednesday): Payment for those born between the 21st and 31st.
It’s important to note that Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients get their payments on the 1st of the month unless the date falls on a weekend or holiday, in which case the payment is made on the prior business day.
Eligibility
To receive Social Security benefits, whether for retirement or disability, you must meet certain eligibility requirements. For retirement benefits, you must be at least 62 years old and have paid Social Security taxes for at least 10 years, which equates to earning 40 Social Security credits. These credits are based on your work history and annual earnings.
While earning credits is essential for determining your eligibility, they do not impact the actual amount of your monthly payment. Your benefit amount is primarily based on your highest-earning years, inflation adjustments, and your full retirement age (FRA). If you haven’t worked for 10 years, you may still be eligible for benefits based on your current or former spouse’s work record.
For disability benefits, also known as Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), the requirements are similar but with added conditions. You must have accumulated enough Social Security credits before becoming disabled and provide medical proof of your condition, which must prevent you from engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA) for at least one year. This includes both physical disabilities and blindness.
Amounts
Once you’re accepted into either the retirement or disability benefits program, the SSA calculates your monthly payment based on your individual work history and earnings. The benefit amounts for 2024 are as follows:
Retirement Benefits:
| Retirement Age | Monthly Payment |
|---|---|
| Age 62 | $2,710 |
| Age 67 | $3,822 |
| Age 70 | $4,873 |
| Average Payment | $1,900 |
Disability Benefits:
| Disability Type | Monthly Payment |
|---|---|
| Blind Recipients | $2,590 |
| Maximum Payment | $3,822 |
| Average Payment | $1,537 |
For most recipients, the average monthly Social Security retirement benefit is around $1,900, while those on disability receive an average of $1,537 per month. Maximum benefits vary depending on factors like your age at retirement and your lifetime earnings. Retiring at age 70 yields the highest monthly payment, while claiming benefits at 62 results in a lower monthly payout.
Payment
If you haven’t received your Social Security payment this week and you don’t meet the conditions for a payment on September 25th, there’s a good chance your payment is coming soon. Keep in mind that all beneficiaries born between the 21st and 31st will get their payments on the 4th Wednesday of the month.
To stay informed, it’s important to regularly check your My Social Security account, which provides real-time updates on your benefits, including payment dates. You can also reach out to the SSA’s customer service if you have specific questions about your payment schedule.
FAQs
Who will get their Social Security payment on September 25th?
Beneficiaries born between the 21st and 31st and who claimed benefits after May 1997.
What is the average Social Security payment for retirees in 2024?
The average monthly payment is approximately $1,900.
How are Social Security credits calculated?
Credits are based on your annual earnings, with 40 credits (or 10 years of work) required for eligibility.
When do SSI recipients get their monthly payments?
SSI recipients usually receive their payments on the 1st of each month.
What is the maximum Social Security payment for retirees at age 70?
The maximum monthly benefit for retirees at age 70 in 2024 is $4,873.
