Although the Social Security Administration‘s payment schedules are relatively similar and follow a pattern, there are some significant differences to note in December. The first thing to note is that there is no SSI payment scheduled for December 1, 2024. In fact, because the first of November is a Sunday, qualified beneficiaries must have collected it on November 29.
Retirees and SSDI claimants usually receive a Social Security payment on the third. Then, there are typically three Wednesday payments. In December 2024, a payment will be made on the third, but just two checks will be given on Wednesday.
No Social Security Payment on the Fourth Wednesday in December
The administration has confirmed that the payment due on December 25 will be issued on December 24 instead. This is because December 25 is Christmas Day, which is a federal holiday.
However, there will be payments on the second and third Wednesdays in December. Retirees and SSDI beneficiaries who qualify will get monthly payouts on December 11, 18, and 24.
While you must have been receiving retirement or SSDI benefits prior to May 1997 to be eligible for Social Security on December 3, you may also qualify if you receive SSI payments. Payments will be made on the 11th, 18th, and 24th to beneficiaries with birthdays ranging from 1-10, 11-20, or 21-31.
Will Social Security payment amounts be affected by these changes?
Not at all. Retirees and SSDI beneficiaries will receive the same Social Security payment amounts in December. In fact, they will remain unchanged until January 2025.
This is when Social Security payments will begin to reflect the average $50 increase beginning January 3. Only Supplemental Security Income beneficiaries will benefit from the COLA rise on December 31, 2024.
The average retirement benefit payout in December will be around $1,927, according to Social Security’s COLA Fact Sheet. SSDI recipients may get around $1,542. SSI participants will receive approximately $697 on average.