Why will some Social Security recipients not get benefit checks in September?

Aside from Social Security, one of the largest benefit programs managed by the Social Security Adminstration (SSA) is Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Unlike Social Security, which requires beneficiaries to pay into the program throughout their careers, SSI is a social assistance program that supports low-income people and those with disabilities by offering a modest monthly payment. According to the Center for Budget and Policy Priorities, over half of SSI beneficiaries also receive SNAP benefits to reduce their grocery bill and make their SSI payments stretch a little farther each month.

SSI beneficiaries typically receive their payments on the first of the month. However, when the first falls on a weekend or holiday, the SSA will distribute benefits on the previous business day. Since the first fell on a Sunday in September, payments were made on Friday, August 30th. No other payments will be issued in September. The next payment will be issued on Tuesday, October 1st.

What is the average payment?

The average SSI payment depends on the recipient’s age. The July Social Security Snapshot found that the average benefit size for recipients under 18 was $805.39; for those between 18 and 64, it was $742.70, and for those sixty-five and older, it came out to $574.90. Benefits tend to shrink as people get older because they have other sources of income, like work or Social Security.

SSI, like Social Secuirty, also has a maximum benefit amount that increases each year through the annual Cost-of-living Adjustment (COLA). This year, the highest possible payment for SSI stands at $943 for individuals and $1,415 for couples. In 2025, the COLA is expected to be smaller than the 3.2 percent increase tacked onto benefits this year. The current forecast from the Senior Citizens League estimates that the COLA will be around 2.57 percent, with the official number set to be released in mid-October.