As December unfolds, it’s crucial for Social Security beneficiaries, including those receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and retirement benefits, to be aware of the specific payment schedules to ensure timely receipt of funds.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has established a structured payment calendar, and understanding it can help prevent any unexpected delays, especially during the holiday season.
Understanding the Social Security Payment Schedule
The SSA distributes payments based on a beneficiary’s birth date and the date they began receiving benefits. Here’s a breakdown of the payment schedule:
| Beneficiary Category | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| SSI recipients | December 1, 2024 (Note: Since December 1 falls on a Sunday, payments will be made on November 29, 2024) |
| Beneficiaries who started receiving benefits before May 1997 | December 3, 2024 |
| Birth dates 1st–10th | December 11, 2024 |
| Birth dates 11th–20th | December 18, 2024 |
| Birth dates 21st–31st | December 24, 2024 |
Note: If your payment date falls on a federal holiday, the payment is typically made on the preceding business day.
December 2024 Payment Details
For December 2024, the SSA has scheduled payments as follows:
- December 11: Beneficiaries with birth dates from the 1st to the 10th.
- December 18: Beneficiaries with birth dates from the 11th to the 20th.
- December 24: Beneficiaries with birth dates from the 21st to the 31st.
It’s important to note that these dates apply to retirement, SSDI, and survivor benefits. SSI recipients will receive their payments on November 29, 2024, due to December 1 falling on a Sunday.
Anticipated Payment Amounts for December
The amounts for December 2024 will remain consistent with previous months, as the new Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) of 2.5% will take effect in January 2025. The average monthly payments are approximately:
- Retirement Benefits: $1,907
- SSDI Benefits: $1,537
- Survivor Benefits: $1,509
- SSI Benefits: $697.50
These figures are averages; individual payments may vary based on work history and specific circumstances.
Ensuring Timely Receipt of Payments
To avoid delays, ensure that your banking information and mailing address are current with the SSA. Most beneficiaries receive payments via direct deposit, which is the fastest and most secure method. If you experience any delays or issues, contact the SSA promptly.
Looking Ahead: January 2025 COLA Increase
Starting in January 2025, beneficiaries will see a 2.5% COLA increase in their payments, aimed at offsetting inflation and rising living costs. For example, the average retirement benefit is expected to rise to approximately $1,969 per month.
When will I receive my December 2024 Social Security payment?
Payments are distributed based on your birth date:
- 1st–10th: December 11
- 11th–20th: December 18
- 21st–31st: December 24
Will there be a payment increase in December 2024?
No, the COLA increase of 2.5% will take effect in January 2025.
What should I do if I don’t receive my payment on the scheduled date?
Allow three additional mailing days before contacting the SSA to report a missing payment.
