september social security checks For those awaiting their Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments, you may have noticed a change in the usual schedule this month. There’s no SSI check slated for September, which has left some recipients puzzled. Fortunately, this discrepancy is due to a simple calendar quirk, and there’s no cause for alarm. Here’s everything you need to know about why this is happening and what you can expect.
Why Is There No SSI Payment in September?
Typically, SSI benefits are issued on the first business day of each month. However, since September 1, 2024, falls on a Sunday, the payment intended for September was actually distributed on Friday, August 30. As a result, there will be no additional SSI payments in September.
This scheduling shift is not unique to September. A similar adjustment occurred earlier this year in June, when payments were made on Friday, May 31, instead of Saturday, June 1. The next payment wasn’t distributed until Monday, July 1. The SSA aligns payment schedules with weekends and holidays, which occasionally results in changes like this.
Understanding SSI and Its Distinction from Social Security Benefits
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is distinct from Social Security retirement benefits. Unlike Social Security, which is funded through income taxes, SSI is financed by the U.S. Treasury and state-level supplements. It’s designed to assist low-income seniors and disabled individuals who meet specific eligibility criteria.
Eligibility for SSI Includes:
- Income: Must have little or no income.
- Resources: Must have limited resources.
- Disability or Age: Must be 65 or older, or have a disability or blindness.
In 2024, the maximum monthly SSI benefit is $943 for individuals and $1,415 for couples. SSI does not require a work history, unlike Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), which is based on a person’s work history and contributions to Social Security.
September Social Security Payment Schedule
For those receiving traditional Social Security retirement benefits, the payment schedule for September will proceed as usual:
- September 11: Beneficiaries with birthdates between the 1st and 10th of the month.
- September 18: Beneficiaries with birthdates between the 11th and 20th of the month.
- September 25: Beneficiaries with birthdates between the 21st and 31st of the month.
Exciting Changes Ahead: Simplified SSI Applications
In addition to this month’s scheduling anomaly, there’s good news for those applying for SSI benefits. The SSA will be rolling out a new, streamlined online application process called iClaim later this year. This new system will feature simpler, plain-language questions to expedite the application process.
Phased Rollout for iClaim:
- December 2024: The system will be available for first-time applicants between the ages of 18 and 65 who are applying for both Social Security benefits and SSI.
- 2025: The system will expand to all SSI applicants.
Final Thoughts
The lack of an SSI check in September is simply a matter of calendar alignment and will not impact the overall benefit amount you are entitled to. Keep an eye on the SSA’s schedule and stay informed about upcoming changes to ensure you receive your benefits on time.
For more details, visit the SSA website or contact their customer service for any questions or concerns.
