In June 2024, Social Security beneficiaries in the United States will see some changes in the payment schedule, according to the latest updates from the Social Security Administration (SSA). This system is crucial for millions of citizens, including retired workers and individuals with disabilities, who rely on these funds for their daily sustenance.
Social Security payments are scheduled based on the beneficiary’s birth date. Those born between the 1st and the 10th of any month receive their payment on the second Wednesday of June; those born between the 11th and the 20th, on the third Wednesday; and those whose birthdays fall between the 21st and the 31st, receive their funds on the last Wednesday of the month.
Payment schedule breakdown for social security
It’s important to note that there is a special consideration for beneficiaries who began receiving payments before May 1997. This group receives their funds at the beginning of the month, regardless of their birth date. Additionally, if a beneficiary receives both regular Social Security payments and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, the SSA prioritizes the payment of SSI at the start of the month, with the regular payment following on the third day.
Below is the specific schedule for Social Security check disbursements in June 2024, as outlined by the SSA:
- Monday, June 3: For beneficiaries who started receiving payments before May 1997.
- Wednesday, June 12: For those born between the 1st and the 10th of the month.
- Tuesday, June 18: For those born between the 11th and the 20th of the month. This payment is scheduled for Tuesday because June 19 is Juneteenth, a federal holiday.
- Wednesday, June 26: For those whose birthdays fall between the 21st and the 31st of the month.
When a scheduled payment date falls on a weekend or a holiday, the SSA advances the disbursement to the previous business day. For example, although there are no specific SSI payments scheduled for June, the corresponding checks are issued on Friday, May 31, as the original date falls on a weekend.
The amounts of the checks vary depending on each individual’s situation. However, the SSA provides some average figures that can serve as a reference:
- Individual retired workers can expect an average of $1,907.
- Couples filing jointly can expect approximately $3,303.
For Social Security beneficiaries without partners, the average check is $943, and for couples, it’s $1,415.
Annual adjustments and final considerations
Every year, Social Security payments undergo adjustments due to the Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA), which aims to offset inflation and maintain the purchasing power of beneficiaries. For 2024, the COLA is expected to increase by 3.4%.
This system of scheduled and adjusted payments aims to provide a stable financial foundation for millions of Americans who depend on these funds for their well-being. Staying informed about these changes and understanding the payment schedule is crucial for all current and future Social Security beneficiaries.
Moreover, staying on top of these updates ensures that you can plan your finances more effectively.
Whether you are currently receiving benefits or planning to apply, knowing when to expect your payments can help you manage your budget and expenses.
It’s also worth noting that the SSA continues to improve its services to make the process smoother for beneficiaries. They offer various online tools and resources to help you track your payments and understand your benefits better. If you haven’t already, consider setting up an online account with the SSA to easily access your benefit statements and other important information.
Planning for retirement: Understanding Social Security and Its financial implications
Additionally, if you are nearing retirement age or planning for the future, it’s essential to consider how Social Security benefits will fit into your overall financial plan. Social Security is designed to replace only a portion of your pre-retirement income, so it’s important to have other sources of income, such as savings, investments, or a pension.
For those who are still working, understanding the earnings limit is crucial. In 2024, the earnings limit for those under full retirement age is $19,560. If you exceed this amount, your benefits will be reduced temporarily. Specifically, the SSA will deduct $1 from your benefits for every $2 you earn above the limit. This reduction applies only until you reach full retirement age, after which there is no penalty for working and earning more.
It’s also beneficial to be aware of the potential tax implications of your Social Security benefits. Depending on your overall income, up to 85% of your Social Security benefits may be taxable. Therefore, consulting with a tax advisor can help you understand how your benefits will impact your tax situation and what strategies you can use to minimize your tax liability.
