From the moment the Social Security Administration (SSA) approves your benefits, they should start arriving each month on the same date. Well, almost always, because sometimes some benefits can change from the fixed date if the payday falls on a holiday or weekend.
Depending on the payment, your payments will normally arrive at one of these days, every month:
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI): 1st day of each month (except when it falls on a weekend or holiday. In which case, it is moved forward to the nearest business day).
- Retirement or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) for beneficiaries who turn between the 1st and 10th of any month: second Wednesday of each month.
- Retirement or SSDI for beneficiaries who turn between the 11th and the 20th of any month: third Wednesday of each month.
- If you receive both Social Security and SSI, or started claiming benefits before May 1997: your Social Security benefits will be paid on the 3rd of each month (except in the case of a holiday or weekend) and SSI on the first day.
However, factors such as beneficiary errors, SSA errors, or external problems may occur that may cause a delay in the arrival of benefits.
Why Hasn’t Your Social Security Payment Arrived? The Most Common Causes
If your payment hasn’t arrived, the first thing you should do is check to see if there have been any changes to the Social Security payment schedule.
Payment dates may vary if the first or third day of the month falls on a weekend or holiday. If you have verified that there was no change in the payment date, here are some of the most common reasons why your payment may not have been processed.
Delays at Social Security Offices… Not Totally Impossible
Although less common, the Social Security office handling your payments may be experiencing problems that could delay delivery of your check. If you suspect this to be the case, you can try contacting your local office for more information.
Suspension of Your Benefits
Social Security benefits are not absolutely guaranteed; There are situations that can lead to your suspension or temporary loss. For example, if you receive benefits and start working, you may not receive a check if your income exceeds the limit.
Additionally, if you are in prison for more than 30 days, your benefits may be temporarily suspended. Find out about the different situations that may affect the continuity of your benefits.
Change of Bank or Address Information of the Beneficiary
If you have changed your bank account or moved, you must report these changes to the Social Security Administration. Otherwise, your payment may be delayed since the SSA will not be aware of your new situation. It is crucial to keep your information up to date to avoid any interruption in receiving your payments.
Benefits Application Not Yet Processed
If you recently applied for Social Security benefits, chances are they are still in the process of being approved. After you submit your application, you will receive a letter with the expected date your benefits will start, which may take up to 30 days.
During 2024, most new applicants have received their first payment within two weeks of filing, but in some cases it may take between 4 and 12 weeks. If it has been more than 30 days and you have not received confirmation, you can check the status of your application online through your My Social Security account.
How to Report a Missing Payment to the SSA
If you did not receive your payment on the expected date, first check with your bank to see if there are any pending payments. If you cannot find information, contact the Social Security Administration at 800-772-1213 or visit your local office for assistance. A representative should be able to review your case and provide you with the information necessary to identify the cause of your late payment.