As we approach the new year, one of the biggest updates for Social Security recipients is the upcoming cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for January 2025. This means that the next Social Security check you receive will include a higher payment thanks to the COLA increase. So, if you’ve been wondering about the exact timing of your next payment, or how to navigate the Social Security payment schedule, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know, from when to expect your check in January 2025, to what to do if you haven’t received your December payment yet. We’ll also clarify how your payment schedule is determined based on your birthdate, and how you can get help if something goes wrong.
What is the COLA Increase?
The Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) is an annual increase in Social Security benefits to help keep up with inflation. For 2025, the COLA increase means more money for millions of Americans receiving Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. The goal is to ensure that the purchasing power of your benefits keeps pace with the rising cost of living, including increases in the prices of goods and services.
If you’ve been receiving Social Security payments for a while, you’re probably familiar with the COLA increases that happen each year. But for newcomers or those just starting to receive benefits, it’s important to know that this adjustment is part of how Social Security helps you stay financially secure in an ever-changing economy.
When Will I Get My Social Security Check in January 2025?
The timing of your Social Security check is based on a few factors. These include how long you’ve been receiving benefits and the day of the month you were born. In general, Social Security checks are paid out on specific days of the month, and the exact day can vary depending on your birthdate.
For most Social Security recipients, payments are made on the second, third, or fourth Wednesday of the month. Here’s how it works:
- Second Wednesday: If your birthdate is between the 1st and 10th of the month, you will receive your payment on the second Wednesday.
- Third Wednesday: If your birthdate is between the 11th and 20th of the month, your payment will arrive on the third Wednesday.
- Fourth Wednesday: If your birthdate is between the 21st and 31st, your payment will arrive on the fourth Wednesday of the month.
For January 2025, the first payment of the month will arrive on January 8, 2025, which is the second Wednesday of the month.
How is My Social Security Payment Date Determined?
Social Security payments are typically distributed on Wednesdays, but the exact day you get your payment is determined by your birthdate. For instance, if your birthday falls within the first ten days of the month, you’ll get your payment on the second Wednesday. If it’s between the 11th and 20th, you’ll get your payment on the third Wednesday. And if your birthday falls between the 21st and the 31st, your payment will arrive on the fourth Wednesday of the month.
One Key Exception: If you receive both Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI), or if you began receiving benefits before May 1997, your payment schedule is slightly different. These individuals typically receive their Social Security payment on the third of each month, while SSI benefits are issued on the first of the month.
However, these dates may change if the 1st or 3rd falls on a weekend or holiday. For example, if the 1st of the month is a weekend, you may receive your payment a day or two earlier to ensure you get it on time. The same adjustment happens for the third of the month if it falls on a weekend.
Will I Receive My Other Government Benefits on the Same Day?
If you’re receiving other government benefits, like SSI, the schedule may differ from your regular Social Security payments. Social Security and SSI payments are processed separately, and although they might arrive around the same time, they’re on different schedules.
Here’s a breakdown:
- Social Security: Sent on the third of each month.
- SSI: Sent on the first of each month.
However, as mentioned earlier, these dates can shift if the 1st or 3rd falls on a weekend or holiday.
Didn’t Receive Your Social Security Check? Here’s What to Do
If you haven’t received your check when you expected it, the Social Security Administration (SSA) recommends waiting for three additional mailing days. Sometimes delays happen, and your check may take a bit longer to reach you. After this waiting period, if you still haven’t received it, it’s time to take action.
Step-by-Step: What to Do If You Haven’t Received Your Payment
- Wait for 3 Additional Mailing Days: This is the SSA’s official recommendation. Sometimes, checks can get delayed due to mail processing or other reasons, but they usually arrive within this time frame.
- Contact the SSA: If the check still hasn’t arrived, you can call the SSA toll-free number: 1-800-772-1213. Be aware that call volume can be high, so the best time to call is early in the morning, later in the week, or toward the end of the month.
- Visit a Local SSA Office: If you’re having trouble getting through by phone, the SSA provides an office locator tool on their website. Use it to find a nearby office, and you can contact them for assistance in person.
How to Apply for Social Security and SSI
If you’re new to Social Security, you might be wondering how to apply for benefits. The process can seem a little overwhelming, but it’s actually quite simple.
To apply for Social Security benefits, you can do it online through the official SSA website. This allows you to get started quickly and track your progress as you go. If you’re applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or benefits for children, the SSA also provides easy-to-follow steps on their website.
If you need help with your application, don’t hesitate to reach out to the SSA or your local office for guidance.
Conclusion
The start of 2025 brings an exciting update for Social Security recipients, with the COLA increase leading to higher monthly payments. Whether you’re receiving your Social Security payment for the first time or you’ve been a recipient for years, understanding when and how you’ll get your check is important. Always keep an eye on your payment schedule and contact the SSA if any issues arise.
If you’re still waiting on your December check, follow the steps we outlined above to get assistance. Social Security is here to help you, and they provide multiple ways to reach out if something goes wrong.
