check the dates Social Security set for increased checks and direct deposits

According to Vibes.okdiario, The annual Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) aims to help Social Security recipients offset inflation’s impact on buying power. This year, a 2.5% increase is set for Social Security benefits; however, retirees and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) recipients won’t see this increase reflected in their November or December payments. Instead, the COLA adjustment will take effect in January 2025.

SSI Recipients Receive COLA Early on December 31
For Supplemental Security Income (SSI) beneficiaries, the 2.5% COLA increase will be applied to payments issued on December 31, 2024. Recipients eligible on that date will benefit from this early adjustment, helping to provide additional support before the new year.

Eligibility Requirements for SSI Payments with the COLA Increase

To receive the COLA-adjusted SSI payment on December 31, you must:

• Be an approved SSI recipient with eligibility maintained for December.
• Meet the general SSI requirements, including:
  • Low income and limited resources.
  • One of the following conditions:
    • Be aged 65 or older.
    • Have a qualifying disability.
    • Be legally blind.

Additional residency and eligibility requirements may also apply, though most recipients who qualify under income and condition standards generally meet these criteria.

January Payment Dates with the COLA Increase for Retirees and SSDI Recipients

The Social Security Administration (SSA) will start distributing COLA-adjusted payments for retirees and SSDI recipients on the following dates:

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• January 3, 8, 15, and 22, 2025

For every $100 of your Social Security payment, the COLA boost provides an extra $2.50. For example:

• A $1,000 monthly benefit will increase to $1,025 after COLA.
• A $500 monthly benefit will become $512.50.
• A higher benefit, such as $4,000 per month, will increase to $4,100, providing an additional $100.

Maximizing Your Social Security Benefits with Delayed Credits

If you haven’t yet filed for Social Security, consider delaying your application past your Full Retirement Age (FRA) to earn delayed retirement credits. These credits increase your benefits and are also impacted by COLA adjustments, maximizing your future payments.

By planning ahead, Social Security recipients can make the most of COLA adjustments to better navigate rising costs.