Next month, if you’re receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you might notice an extra payment in August. This is because of a calendar shift caused by a weekend in September, resulting in two payments for August—one at the beginning of the month
and another at the end. For many, this will be a welcomed financial boost. Here’s a breakdown of why this happens, who’s eligible, and what to expect.
Why is there an Extra SSI Check in August?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) sends SSI benefits on the first of every month. However, when the first falls on a weekend or holiday, the SSA sends payments on the last business day of the previous month.
This shift explains why you’ll see an extra check in August. For example, the September 1st payment will come on Friday, August 30th, because the first of September is on a weekend.
SSI Payment Dates to Remember
Here are some important upcoming payment dates for SSI:
- Friday, May 31: June Payment
- Monday, July 1: July Payment
- Thursday, August 1: August Payment
- Friday, August 30: September Payment
- Tuesday, October 1: October Payment
- Friday, November 1: November Payment
- Friday, November 29: December Payment
For the latest updates, always check the official SSA payment calendar.
Who is Eligible for the Extra SSI Check?
To receive this extra check, you need to qualify for SSI. Eligibility generally depends on the following:
- Low income: Your earnings and resources are limited.
- Blind, 65 or older, or disabled: These are the primary conditions for SSI.
- Children: Blind or disabled children can also receive payments.
The average monthly SSI benefit is $658, but in August, individuals could receive up to $1,316, and couples up to $2,830 if eligible for the extra payment.
Future Payment Adjustments
Besides the extra check in August, your regular SSI payments may increase later this year. This increase is due to the cost of living adjustment (COLA) that the SSA regularly makes to account for inflation.
Be on the lookout for these changes, and if your payment doesn’t arrive as expected, the SSA recommends waiting three postal days before contacting them.
New SSI Eligibility Rule
Starting September 30th, the SSA is expanding the rules for SSI eligibility. Now, households that receive means-tested public assistance, like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), may qualify for SSI.
This could help more people receive benefits, even if not everyone in the household is receiving public assistance. This new rule can also mean higher monthly payments for current recipients.
This extra SSI check in August can be a financial relief for many, but it’s also essential to stay updated on any upcoming changes to SSI payments.
The new eligibility rule taking effect in September could also mean more benefits for households that need them most. Be sure to check your payment schedule, and if anything seems off, reach out to the SSA after waiting the recommended three postal days.
1. Why do I get an extra SSI check in August?
This happens because September 1st falls on a weekend, so the payment is shifted to the previous business day in August.
2. Who qualifies for the extra SSI payment?
To qualify, you must meet SSI eligibility requirements, which include having low income, being blind, disabled, or over 65 years old.
3. How much money will I get with the extra check?
Individuals can receive up to $1,316 in August, while couples may get up to $2,830 if eligible for both checks.
4. What should I do if I don’t receive my payment?
Wait three postal days after the expected date and then contact the SSA if your check hasn’t arrived.
5. What is the new rule for SSI eligibility?
Starting September 30th, households receiving means-tested public assistance, like SNAP, may become eligible for SSI, even if not all members are on public assistance.
