When Are Social Security Payments Going Out?

If you’re on SSI, you can expect your payment to hit your account this Friday, January 31. Normally, the social security payments come in on the first of the month, but when that date falls on a weekend or a federal holiday, the schedule gets bumped. The Social Security Administration (SSA) does this to ensure you don’t have to wait past the first for your money.

In other words, don’t panic if your January payment came earlier than usual—it’s not a mistake or a bonus. It’s just how the schedule works.

How Much Can You Expect?

Thanks to the annual Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) that kicked in at the start of 2025, the maximum SSI benefit is now:

• $967 for individuals
• $1,450 for couples

This is a slight increase from 2024’s max of $943 for individuals and $1,415 for couples. While it’s not a huge jump compared to the 8.7% hike in 2023 (thanks, inflation), every little bit helps, right?

The actual amount you receive might vary depending on factors like your income, disability status, and household size. On average, federally administered SSI payments were around $697 as of last year.

What Happens If Your Payment Doesn’t Arrive?

The SSA advises waiting three business days before reaching out. If you haven’t seen the payment in your account by February 5, it’s time to call them up. Remember, weekends and federal holidays don’t count as business days, so factor that in.