SSI Recipients to Receive Two Checks This November: Here’s Why

Corrections & Clarifications: An earlier version of this story misstated the schedule of checks coming to recipients. They will receive an SSI check on December 31, 2024.

Some Social Security beneficiaries may have noticed an unusual change in the payment schedule for November: an extra Supplemental Security Income (SSI) check is set to be distributed. While those who closely monitor the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) 2024 timetable may not find this surprising, it could still cause confusion for others accustomed to receiving monthly payments.

Why Are SSI Recipients Getting Two Checks in November?

The reason for the double payment in November comes down to a scheduling quirk. SSI benefits, intended for low-income seniors and disabled individuals, are typically distributed on the first business day of each month. However, because December 1 falls on a Sunday this year, the SSA has scheduled December payments to be issued the Friday before, on November 29.

As a result, SSI recipients will receive checks on the following dates in November:

• Friday, November 1
• Friday, November 29

What is SSI?

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) differs from Social Security retirement benefits. While the SSA administers SSI, it does not fund these payments. Social Security benefits primarily rely on income tax contributions, whereas SSI is financed by the U.S. Treasury and state-level supplements.

SSI aims to assist older individuals and those with disabilities who fall below a specific income threshold. Eligibility criteria include having:

• Little or no income
• Little or no resources
• A disability, blindness, or being age 65 or older

For 2024, the maximum monthly benefit is $943 for individuals and $1,415 for couples, provided both qualify. Unlike Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), which requires a work history, SSI does not mandate prior employment contributions.

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November Social Security Payment Schedule

The SSA releases its payment schedules well in advance, allowing recipients to plan ahead. For November 2024, traditional Social Security retirement benefits will be distributed as follows:

• Wednesday, November 13: Birth dates between the 1st and 10th of the month
• Wednesday, November 20: Birth dates between the 11th and 20th of the month
• Wednesday, November 27: Birth dates between the 21st and 31st of the month

New Simplified SSI Applications Coming Soon

In addition to the payment updates, the SSA recently announced a new, streamlined online application process for SSI benefits. This new system, known as iClaim, will feature straightforward, plain-language questions designed to expedite the application process for both applicants and claims processors.

Initially, the new system will be available in December for first-time applicants aged 18 to almost 65 who have never married and are concurrently applying for both Social Security benefits and SSI. While not all applicants will have immediate access to this system, it marks a significant step toward simplifying the application process for many Americans.

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