Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a critical source of financial assistance for individuals with disabilities who are unable to work. Every year, the Social Security Administration (SSA) releases a payment schedule, which can sometimes be adjusted due to federal holidays. With Christmas Day 2024 falling on a Wednesday, SSDI beneficiaries need to understand how their payments might be affected.
December 2024 SSDI Payment Schedule
The SSA determines SSDI payment dates based on the beneficiary’s birth date. Here’s the schedule for December 2024:
| Payment Date | Birth Date Range |
|---|---|
| December 11, 2024 | 1st to 10th of the month |
| December 18, 2024 | 11th to 20th of the month |
| December 24, 2024 | 21st to 31st of the month (adjusted for Christmas) |
Because December 25, 2024, is a federal holiday, payments scheduled for that day will instead be issued on Tuesday, December 24, 2024.
Upcoming Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) for 2025
The SSA has announced a 2.5% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) for 2025, designed to help beneficiaries keep up with inflation. This adjustment will raise the average SSDI payment from $1,489 to approximately $1,526.
The COLA increase will first appear in January 2025 payments, which will be distributed as follows:
| Payment Date | Birth Date Range |
|---|---|
| January 8, 2025 | 1st to 10th of the month |
| January 15, 2025 | 11th to 20th of the month |
| January 22, 2025 | 21st to 31st of the month |
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Adjustments
Recipients of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) will also see adjustments in their payment schedule. SSI payments are usually issued on the first of the month, but because January 1, 2025, is a federal holiday, SSI payments will be deposited earlier, on December 31, 2024.
The COLA increase applies to SSI benefits as well, raising the average payment from $943 to approximately $967.
How to Ensure You Receive Payments on Time
To avoid delays or disruptions, SSDI and SSI beneficiaries should take the following steps:
- Use Direct Deposit: The SSA encourages all beneficiaries to sign up for direct deposit to ensure payments are received on time.
- Update Personal Information: Notify the SSA of any changes to your address or banking information.
- Monitor Payment Dates: Regularly check your bank account or payment card around the expected deposit dates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Will SSDI payments be delayed due to Christmas?
No. SSDI payments scheduled for December 25, 2024, will be issued earlier, on December 24, 2024.
Q2: When will the COLA increase take effect?
The 2.5% COLA increase will appear in the January 2025 SSDI and SSI payments.
Q3: How can I check my payment schedule?
You can verify your schedule by logging into your “my Social Security” account on the SSA website or contacting your local SSA office.
Q4: What should I do if I don’t receive my payment on the expected date?
If you don’t receive your payment, wait three additional mailing days before contacting the SSA.
Q5: Can I change my payment method to direct deposit?
Yes. You can switch to direct deposit through your “my Social Security” account or by contacting the SSA directly.
Conclusion
SSDI beneficiaries scheduled to receive payments on December 25, 2024, will instead get their deposits on December 24 due to the Christmas holiday. Additionally, with the 2025 COLA increase, beneficiaries can expect higher payments starting in January. Staying informed and prepared ensures you receive your benefits on time without any hassle.