The Social Security Administration (SSA) has recently announced the payment dates for seniors this month, with the first round of Social Security payments being disbursed a few days earlier than usual in March.
Eligible citizens, including those receiving SSI payments, retirees who started receiving benefits before May 1997, and individuals living outside of the United States, received their payments on March 1.
Seniors to Receive Payments Early
For those who qualify for both Social Security and SSI benefits, the payment schedule differs. Social Security payments are issued on the third of each month, while SSI payments are issued on the first of each month. However, these dates can change if the first or third day of the month falls on a weekend or holiday, as was the case in March.
Seniors enrolled in the Social Security retirement program can expect to receive an average of $3,800 in March, with the maximum payment being $4,800. Several factors determine the exact payment amount, including the recipient’s average lifetime earnings subject to Social Security tax.
Late Social Security Check? Here’s What to Do
Higher earnings typically result in a higher monthly benefit. The monthly amount is also affected by when benefits are claimed, with benefits claimed before the Full Retirement Age (FRA) resulting in a decreased amount, while delaying benefits past the FRA can increase the amount.
If your check is late, there are steps you can take. Wait three business days after the expected payment date, check your payment date online, contact your bank to ensure there are no issues on their end, and finally, contact the SSA if your check still hasn’t arrived within three business days.
Be prepared to provide your Social Security number, address, phone number, and the anticipated date of your check when contacting the SSA. Remember to be patient, as the SSA will issue a replacement check if your check is lost or stolen.
