Social Security Confirms New Increase in SSI Payments – It’s Now Official

Millions of Americans rely on Supplemental Security Income (SSI) checks to cover basic living expenses, but recent delays in payments have caused financial stress for some beneficiaries. Thankfully, the Social Security Administration (SSA) has announced that SSI checks for some recipients will increase due to a backlog in distributing these essential benefits. This increase comes as a relief, especially for vulnerable individuals who depend on these funds.

Backlog

The SSI program primarily provides financial assistance to low-income individuals, disabled persons who haven’t paid Social Security taxes, and children with specific financial needs. The recent increase is targeted at about 400 beneficiaries suffering from severe terminal illnesses, such as chronic heart failure and various forms of cancer.

These beneficiaries have faced delays in payments, leaving them in a challenging situation. The SSA recognizes the urgency of providing support for these recipients, and the increase in SSI checks will help ease their financial strain.

Benefits

In addition to addressing delayed payments for terminally ill beneficiaries, the SSA has announced a broader increase in SSI checks. The program aims to provide more financial security for those in desperate need of support during life-altering health crises. Monthly checks are expected to increase in the next three to six months, but the total amount of the increase will not surpass the maximum monthly SSI payment, which is $943 for 2024.

Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA)

A second increase in SSI benefits is also coming due to the annual cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). This adjustment is designed to account for inflation and the rising cost of everyday essentials. Although the final COLA rate will not be confirmed until October 10th, early predictions suggest a 2.5% increase in SSI checks. Here’s what that could look like for different recipients:

Recipient Type	Current SSI Benefits	Social Security Checks	2.5% COLA Increase	Extra Income
Average	$698	$715	$17
Individuals	$943	$967	$24
Couples	$1,415	$1,450	$35
Essential Person	$472	$484	$12

For SSI beneficiaries, the payment will start on December 31st, rather than in January, due to New Year’s Day falling on a holiday. This means recipients will receive their increased benefits a bit earlier than usual.

Payment Schedule

The SSA is responsible for distributing over 70 million payments each month. To ensure smooth and predictable payments, the agency follows a strict schedule. For SSI beneficiaries, here’s when the last four payments of 2024 will be distributed:

SSI Payments	SSI Payment Dates	Advanced SSI Payment
September
October	October 1st
November	November 1st	November 29th (for Dec. 1st)
December	December 31st (for Jan. 1)

Since SSI payments typically arrive on the first of every month, the January payment will be sent a day early due to the holiday. However, if your payment doesn’t arrive on the expected date, the SSA advises waiting at least three mailing days before contacting customer service, as delays could result from banking processes.

The upcoming SSI increases and adjustments are a much-needed boost for millions of recipients, especially those facing urgent financial challenges. The SSA’s actions are meant to bring more stability to individuals’ lives, offering timely help during critical times.

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