News: If you’re receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI), expect your updated benefit amount by December 29, 2023—a departure from the regular schedule owing to the holiday season. Although the first increased payment of 3.2% won’t be due until January 1, 2024, the Social Security Administration has opted to issue this payment ahead of time.
About SSI
The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program, supported by the government, offers financial aid to retired workers, survivors, and people with disabilities. Recipients receive monthly payments administered by the Social Security Administration, generally scheduled for the first day of each month. However, if that day coincides with a federal holiday or a weekend, payments are deferred until the next business day.
December 2023 Payment Schedule
In December 2023, SSI stimulus checks are scheduled to be received on December 29th. This adjustment is due to the fact that the first of the month falls on a weekend, prompting payments to be issued on the last Friday of the preceding month in accordance with the SSI schedule.
Eligibility for SSI Benefits
Eligibility for SSI benefits entails meeting specific criteria. Applicants must be either 65 years of age or older, blind, or disabled. Moreover, they should have limited resources and restricted income stemming from pensions or other avenues. U.S. citizenship or nationality is a prerequisite unless the individual is an authorized immigrant meeting further qualifications. Residency in the District of Columbia, the Northern Mariana Islands, or any of the 50 states is mandatory. Marital status and family net income also factor into the eligibility assessment.
Reason for Two Payments in December
SSI eligible individuals receive two stimulus checks in December because of the payment structure established by the Social Security Administration. Ordinarily, SSI funds are disbursed on the first of every month. Yet, when the first of the month falls on a Saturday or Sunday, payments are moved to the last Friday of the prior month. This scenario applies to SSI payments commencing in January 2024 since the initial day of January falls on a weekend. Consequently, beneficiaries will receive two payments in December.
Amount of Payment
The payout you’ll receive in December 2023 is contingent upon the Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for that particular year. This adjustment reflects the increase in funds aligned with rising inflation rates. In 2024, the Social Security Administration has raised the COLA by 3.2%. However, unlike most Social Security recipients who typically receive the COLA boost in January 2024, SSI beneficiaries will get it in December 2023. The specific amount you’ll receive in December depends on the type of Social Security benefit you qualify for. For 2023, the maximum SSI benefits stand at $914 for single individuals and $1,371 for couples.
What to Do If Payment is Delayed
If your expected stimulus check hasn’t arrived on time, the Social Security Administration recommends waiting an additional three postal days before reaching out. If the check still hasn’t been received, you can contact a representative by dialing 800-772-1213. Notably, wait times tend to be shorter from Wednesday through Friday, particularly between 4 and 7 p.m.
Taxes and Stimulus Payment
If you owe taxes, it’s essential to know that you will still receive your holiday stimulus check. While the IRS often uses tax refunds to offset outstanding state or federal debts like unpaid taxes, child support, or student loans, your stimulus payment won’t be withheld due to tax liabilities. Your eligibility for the stimulus payment is assessed based on the specifics of your tax situation, and it will not be affected by owing taxes.
To summarize, SSI recipients are set to receive their holiday stimulus check on December 29, 2023, ahead of the anticipated COLA increase in 2024. Eligibility for SSI benefits hinges on specific conditions such as age, limited resources, and income restrictions. The occurrence of two payments in December is a result of the payment schedule established by the Social Security Administration. The actual amount received in December varies based on the type of Social Security benefit obtained. If the expected stimulus check date is missed, it’s advisable to wait an additional three postal days before reaching out to the Social Security Administration. Importantly, owing taxes does not impact eligibility for the stimulus payment.
FAQs
Will I receive my stimulus check if I owe taxes?
Yes, if you owe taxes, you will still receive your holiday stimulus check. Your eligibility for the stimulus payment is determined by the details of your tax obligation, and it will not be withheld due to tax obligations.
What should I do if my stimulus check is delayed?
If your anticipated date for the stimulus check is missed, it is recommended to wait three additional postal days before contacting the Social Security Administration. If the check still does not arrive, you can reach a representative by calling 800-772-1213.
How is the amount of the stimulus payment determined?
The specific amount you will be paid in December depends on the type of Social Security benefit you receive. The maximum SSI benefits for 2023 are $914 for single individuals and $1,371 for couples.
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