December is here, and for millions of Americans, that means one thing: Social Security checks are coming! But when exactly will yours arrive? And how much can you expect to receive? This guide answers all your December Social Security payment questions, in plain English.
The Big Picture:
- Over 70 million Americans receive Social Security benefits each month, with the average payment in 2023 around $1,827.
- December payments have already started, but there are still three more rounds to go.
- Your payment date depends on your birthday.
- Get ready for a 3.2% boost in January 2024 thanks to a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA).
When Will Your Social Security Check Arrive?
Mark your calendars! Here’s the December schedule for Social Security Check and SSI payments:
| Beneficiary Group | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| SSI and Pre-May 1997 Social Security Recipients | December 1st |
| Birthdays 1st-10th | December 13th (Second Wednesday) |
| Birthdays 11th-20th | December 20th (Third Wednesday) |
| Birthdays 21st-31st | December 27th (Fourth Wednesday) |
Additional Notes:
- This table shows the December 2023 payment dates.
- Payments are typically sent on Wednesdays but may be delayed if the Wednesday falls on a holiday.
- SSI recipients will receive two payments in December because the first January payment is brought forward as the actual payment date falls on a weekend.
Remember:
- Payments typically arrive on Wednesdays.
- SSI recipients usually get their money on the 1st of the month, with exceptions for weekends and holidays.
- If you receive both Social Security and SSI and started receiving Social Security checks before May 1997, you’ll get your Social Security payment on the 3rd and SSI on the 1st of each month.
What Does Your Birthday Have to Do with It?
The Social Security Administration sends payments in three batches each month, based on your birthday:
- Early Birds (1st-10th): Get your social security check on the second Wednesday of the month.
- Middle Bunch (11th-20th): Cash in on the third Wednesday.
- Latecomers (21st-31st): Your payment arrives on the fourth Wednesday.
What if My Check Doesn’t Arrive on Time?
Don’t panic! Wait three extra mailing days before calling the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213. Shorter wait times are likely Wednesday-Friday between 4 pm and 7 pm. You can also manage your benefits online.
Get Ready for a Boost: Your Social Security Check is Growing in 2024!
Millions of Americans who rely on Social Security benefits can expect a welcome increase in their monthly payments starting in January 2024. This raise is thanks to a 3.2% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), which is designed to help recipients keep up with rising inflation.
What is a COLA?
A COLA is a periodic adjustment to Social Security benefits that is based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI). The CPI measures the average change in prices for a basket of goods and services that American households typically buy. When the CPI goes up, it means that things are getting more expensive, and Social Security benefits need to be adjusted accordingly to maintain purchasing power.
Check Social Security Changes 2024
How much will the increase be?
The exact amount of the increase will vary depending on your current benefit level. However, the average Social Security recipient will see a boost of about $59 per month, bringing the average monthly payment to $1,886. For some recipients, the increase could be even higher.
When will I see the increase?
The COLA will be applied to benefits payable in January 2024.
What does this mean for me?
The COLA increase is welcome news for millions of Americans who rely on Social Security benefits to make ends meet. It will help to offset the rising cost of living and ensure that their purchasing power remains relatively stable.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind:
- The COLA is only applied to Social Security benefits. It does not apply to Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or other federal benefits.
- The COLA is calculated based on the CPI-W, which is a specific measure of inflation that takes into account the spending habits of retired workers and their dependents.
- The COLA is not guaranteed. If the CPI goes down, there will be no COLA increase in the following year.
Overall, the COLA increase is a positive development for Social Security recipients. It will help to ensure that their benefits keep pace with the rising cost of living.