Social Security September Payments: Why Some People Are Getting Less

As Social Security recipients anticipate their September payments, understanding the timing and process can help avoid any confusion.

The date you receive your benefits is determined by several factors, including your birthdate and chosen payment method.

Here’s what you need to know about getting your Social Security payments this September so you can stretch your retirement savings and maintain cash flow.

Find Out: 8 must-do things before 60 for a stress-free retirement

When is your September Social Security payment coming?

Based on your birthdate, the Social Security Administration disburses funds at different times throughout the month. Here’s the schedule for September:

• Birthdate from September 1 to September 10: September 11
• Birthdate from September 11 to September 20: September 18
• Birthdate from September 21 to September 30: September 25

Your payment dates will be different if you received Social Security before May 1997 or received both Social Security and Supplemental Social Security Income (SSI).

You'll receive your Social Security payment on September 3. But you won’t receive an SSI payment in September. Here’s why.

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Will you get an SSI payment in September?

While Social Security is a program based on your work history and the taxes you've paid into the system, SSI is a needs-based program designed to assist low-income individuals aged, blind, or disabled, regardless of their work history.

If you rely on Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you might be surprised to find that there's no payment scheduled for September. It's important to understand the difference between SSI and Social Security benefits to see why this is happening.

The reason there won't be an SSI payment in September is tied to the payment schedule. SSI payments are typically made on the first of each month. However, when the first falls on a weekend or a holiday, the payment is issued on the last business day of the previous month.

This is exactly what’s happening: since September 1 is on a Sunday, the SSI payment date is moved to Friday, August 30. Combine that with the regular payment made on August 1, and you’ve essentially received two payments in August, covering both August and September.

The majority of people will receive Social Security benefits in their lifetime

A significant 97% of Americans aged 60 to 89 either currently receive or will eventually receive Social Security benefits.

These payments are vital in providing financial stability during retirement, helping many older adults cover essential costs such as housing, daily living expenses, and healthcare.

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The amount of your Social Security benefit is based on your earnings

Your Social Security benefit is determined by your lifetime earnings and the age at which you choose to retire.

While you can start receiving benefits at age 62, doing so will result in a reduced payment compared to waiting until later. As of 2024, the average monthly benefit for retired individuals is $1,907, while couples typically receive an average of $3,033 per month.

Check your cost of living adjustment (COLA)

It’s important to be aware of cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) to ensure you’re receiving the correct payment amount.

In 2024, a 3.2% increase in COLA was applied to payments starting in January. If you notice any discrepancies in your September payment, contact the Social Security Administration for clarification.

Always report late or missing payments

Today, most Social Security recipients opt for direct deposit. However, if you still receive paper checks, it’s crucial to take action if your payment is delayed or missing.

Start by contacting your bank to verify the payment status. If they can’t help, reach out to the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 between 8:00 AM and 7:00 PM local time, Monday through Friday.

Take action if you suspect your payment was stolen

If you believe your Social Security payment has been stolen, it’s essential to act quickly to protect your identity and finances.

Report your suspicions to both your local Social Security office and law enforcement. Additionally, visit IdentityTheft.gov for more guidance on safeguarding your personal information.

Money-saving tips to stretch your Social Security benefits

Maximizing your Social Security benefits starts with smart budgeting. Begin by tracking your monthly expenses to identify areas where you can cut back, such as dining out or subscription services.

Consider shopping for groceries in bulk and using coupons to lower food costs. Additionally, explore senior discounts on utilities, entertainment, and travel to stretch your dollars further.

You can also look for a side hustle or other ways to supplement your Social Security income .

Bottom line

With no SSI payment coming in September, it's important to budget wisely to stretch your benefits until October. Remember, managing your finances carefully during this minor gap can prevent unnecessary stress and help you prepare yourself financially for the future.

Consider exploring community resources or financial planning tools to help you stay on track. How will you make your SSI check last until the next payment?

Money tips that can work for everyone

No matter what your bank account balance is, there's always an opportunity to optimize and improve your finances. Here's a quick checklist of things you can look at today.

Focus on paying off your debt . Debt can hold you back from making progress with your overall financial well-being. Aside from cutting expenses, there are tools that can help you pay off debt faster like balance transfer credit cards and debt counseling.

Earning extra income can give you breathing room. If finances are tight, earning some extra money to supplement your income can make a huge difference. A new job is one option to consider, but if you're not ready to make a big change or already retired, a part-time side job could be a better choice.

Cut your expenses. It sounds painful and so not fun, but it doesn't have to be. Take a look at your biggest expenses because that's where you'll probably find the biggest savings. For example, auto insurance rates have been soaring so shopping around for a new insurance company can be the fastest way to cut your bill. Also, look for ways to cut your grocery bill (despite rising inflation).