Social Security payments are usually made on the second, third, and fourth Wednesdays of each month, though there are some exceptions to be aware of. Here’s what you should know about the payments for this month.
Who is eligible for Social Security payments?
To qualify for Social Security retirement benefits, you need to be at least 62 years old and have earned at least 40 work credits, which is roughly 10 years of work while paying Social Security taxes.
If you have a disability or a visual impairment and meet specific medical and work credit requirements, you might also qualify for Social Security benefits even after retirement. Plus, family members of eligible workers—including spouses, ex-spouses, survivors, dependents, and children—can also receive benefits based on the primary beneficiary’s birthday.
When will the payment check be sent?
When will my payment check be sent?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) indicates that payments are sent out according to the recipient’s birth date. Generally, these deposits occur on the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Wednesdays of the month.
The specific Wednesday you receive your payment depends on when your birthday falls. Those born between the 1st and 10th of the month will get their payments on the second Wednesday, while recipients with birthdays from the 11th to the 20th will see theirs on the third Wednesday. For anyone born from the 21st to the 31st, payments will be distributed on the fourth Wednesday.
On another note, Additional Security Income Benefits are normally issued on the first of the month. If that day lands on a weekend or holiday, the disbursement happens on the previous business day.
Social Security payment schedule
This year’s Social Security payment amounts can be found on the SSA’s website in the complete schedule.
How to receive a social security check
If a friend got their Social Security check this month and you haven’t received yours yet, there’s no need to freak out.
Payments are organized in batches by birthdates, and most of them are electronically deposited into a federally insured bank account.
By law, all federal benefits payments, including Social Security and Supplemental Security Income benefits, are done electronically, except for some cases. If you’re applying for Social Security or Supplemental Security Income benefits, you have the choice to receive your payments either through direct deposit or using a Direct Express Debit Mastercard.
For those currently receiving benefits via check, you might want to consider switching to electronic payment options if you can.
Ask for help if you run into problems
Direct deposits are usually available by 9 a.m. on the payment day. If you notice your payment is late, you may want to check with your bank to see if there’s a delay.
If you get your benefit by paper check, it can take up to three business days to arrive. If it still doesn’t show up, contact the SSA at 800-772-1213 or reach out online through your My Social Security account.
Your My Social Security account is a free personalized portal where you can request a replacement Social Security card, check your benefit application status, estimate future benefits, and manage benefits you’re already receiving. You can also create an account even if you’re not currently receiving benefits.
It’s a good idea to double-check that you’ve provided the correct bank details and address with the SSA, and to sign up for notifications when your payment is issued.
Applying for your first social security benefit
You can start the process for your Social Security check through your My Social Security account or by making an appointment in person or by phone at 800-333-1795. When you apply, select the month you want your benefits to begin. After applying, you should receive a letter confirming your benefits approval or requesting more information.
Typically, it takes at least a month to get your first Social Security check after your application has been processed, although the exact timing may vary based on SSA processing times. Currently, there are some concerns about back-end technology disruptions that could delay things.
During an April SSA management meeting, officials noted that the agency is struggling to maintain timely service this year. Hence, it’s smart to apply at least four months in advance of when you expect to start receiving benefits.
Also, Jason Fichtner, an executive director at the Retirement Income Research Institute and former SSA employee, has pointed out that the need for modernization in their computer systems may lead to ongoing delays and issues.
