Social Security retirement benefits are distributed to retirees and survivors each month, with payments made in the month following the due month. For instance, June’s benefits are paid in July. But what day of the month can recipients expect their checks?
The payment date varies based on factors like the recipient’s birthdate and whose record the benefits are claimed on:
- For recipients on their own record, the payment date depends on their birthdate.
- If benefits are claimed on someone else’s record, such as a deceased spouse, the payment date is based on their birthdate.
- Those receiving spousal benefits from a living spouse will also have payment dates determined by their spouse’s birthdate.
Social Security Payment Schedule
Here is the payment schedule:
| Date of Birth | Benefits Paid on: |
|---|---|
| 1st – 10th of the month | Second Wednesday |
| 11th – 20th of the month | Third Wednesday |
| 21st – 31st of the month | Fourth Wednesday |
Those who started receiving benefits before May 1997 receive payments on the third of each month, or the preceding Friday if the third falls on a weekend.
If you receive both Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Social Security benefits are paid on the third and SSI on the first of each month. SSI is a federal program providing supplemental income to disabled, blind, and aged individuals funded by general tax revenues, not Social Security taxes.
Receiving Your Social Security Payment
To ensure seamless payment receipt, consider setting up direct deposit either during initial benefit enrollment or through a mySocialSecurity account. This account offers various services including requesting a new Social Security card and estimating future benefits.
Call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 to enroll for an account if needed. Alternatively, individuals without bank accounts can opt for the Direct Express card program for direct deposits.
Payment by Check
New applicants must choose electronic payment options, direct deposit, or Direct Express, during enrollment. Exceptions are rare, and existing check recipients must switch to electronic options.
Social Security Taxation
About 40% of Social Security beneficiaries may have to pay taxes on their benefits. Tax-free benefits are based on your “combined income,” which should fall below specific thresholds.
Combined income comprises adjusted gross income, tax-exempt interest, and 50% of Social Security income. Thresholds for combined income vary based on filing status.
Even if above the threshold, only a portion of the benefit is taxable. For more information, consult the Social Security Administration.
— Former Bankrate reporter Georgina Tzanetos contributed to this article.