If you qualify for Social Security benefits, get ready to check your bank account next week. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has confirmed that beneficiaries who qualify for retirement, survivor, or disability insurance (RSDI) and have claimed benefits after May 1997 will receive their payments according to the SSA’s payment schedule.
Let’s look into the eligibility, payment dates, and what you can expect in terms of amounts. We’ll also touch on the tax changes affecting some retirees this month.
Eligibility
To receive Social Security benefits, recipients must meet specific requirements. These include:
- Retirement Benefits: Reaching full retirement age (67), or starting early at 62. Delaying benefits until age 70 can increase the payout.
- Survivor Benefits: Families or individuals must qualify based on the deceased worker’s earnings history.
- Disability Benefits: Disabled workers or blind individuals must demonstrate that their condition prevents them from substantial work.
For all beneficiaries, contributing to Social Security through work history and making sufficient payments into the system is crucial. These contributions help determine the monthly amount you’ll receive.
Dates
Payments are scheduled according to your birthdate. Here’s when you can expect your money:
- Born between the 1st and 10th: Second Wednesday (September 11th).
- Born between the 11th and 20th: Third Wednesday (September 18th).
- Born between the 21st and 31st: Fourth Wednesday (September 25th).
For those who claimed benefits before May 1997, payments will be made on the 3rd of every month, regardless of birthdate.
Payment Amounts
The amount you’ll receive in your monthly Social Security check depends on when you began claiming benefits and your work history. Here’s a breakdown of potential payments:
Retirement Benefits
- Early Retirement (age 62): Up to $2,710 per month.
- Full Retirement Age (age 67): Up to $3,822 per month.
- Delayed Benefits (age 70): Maximum of $4,873 per month.
Survivor Benefits
Survivor benefits depend on the earnings history of the deceased worker. Here’s what you can expect:
- Individual survivors: Average payment of $1,505, with a maximum of $1,773.
- Families with two children: Up to $3,653 per month.
Disability Benefits
For those who qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), payments are determined based on contributions and medical conditions. The average payment is $1,537, but it varies:
- Blind recipients: $2,590 per month.
- Maximum SSDI payment: $3,822.
To qualify for disability payments, you must demonstrate that you are disabled or blind and unable to work for at least one year or face a risk of death. Generally, you need to have worked five of the past ten years, but there are exceptions for younger individuals under 24.
Impacting Seniors
September brings additional financial challenges for seniors, as some states will impose new income taxes on Social Security benefits. Retirees in nine states will face higher taxes on their Social Security payments starting this month, which could shrink their overall earnings.
The states affected by these tax changes include:
| States Imposing Social Security Taxes |
|---|
| Colorado |
| Connecticut |
| Minnesota |
| Montana |
| New Mexico |
| Rhode Island |
| Utah |
| Vermont |
| West Virginia |
Retirees in these states will see reductions in their Social Security payments due to state tax laws. As inflation rises, these changes could further strain seniors’ financial security. It’s important to be aware of your state’s tax policies and prepare for any potential reductions in your monthly benefits.
Benefits
Maximizing your Social Security benefits requires planning and awareness of your options. Delaying benefits until age 70 increases your monthly payments, but this may not be feasible for everyone. If you’re nearing retirement or already receiving benefits, consider speaking with a financial advisor to help make the best choices for your situation.
Whether you’re receiving retirement, survivor, or disability benefits, Social Security provides a vital source of income for millions of Americans. Knowing your options and understanding how payments work can help you make the most of the benefits you’ve earned.
FAQs
When will I get my Social Security payment?
Payments are made on the 2nd, 3rd, or 4th Wednesday of the month, depending on your birthdate.
How much will I receive in Social Security benefits?
It varies based on your work history, contributions, and when you claim. Retirement benefits can range from $1,900 to $4,873.
Are taxes affecting my Social Security payments?
Are taxes affecting my Social Security payments?
Can I get benefits based on my spouse’s earnings?
Yes, you may qualify for benefits based on your spouse’s or ex-spouse’s earnings if you were married for at least 10 years.
Do I qualify for SSDI payments?
You must be disabled, unable to work, and have contributed to Social Security in five of the last ten years to qualify.
