A few times a year, recipients of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) receive two payments in a month. But those double deposits aren’t extra money. They’re early payments for the following month.
In August, people who receive SSI benefits will get a second check before the calendar rolls into September. Here’s what you need to know about that second payment.
Why you’re getting two SSI payments
The Social Security Administration (SSA) usually issues SSI payments on the first day of each month. But if that date is on a weekend or holiday, the agency pays you ahead of schedule — on the last business day of the preceding month.
This schedule ensures those dependent on SSI have the money they need by the first day of the month.
The second SSI payment is not an extra payment. It’s the next month’s payment hitting your account a few days early.
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It’s likely you’ll also receive an SSI payment early when the first of the month is a federal holiday. The payment will be made on the last business day of the previous month.
When you’ll get paid
Your SSI payment for August 2024 will be available on Aug. 1, and a second payment will hit your account on Aug. 30. Because the second payment is for the month of September, the next SSI payment after that won't be until Oct. 1..
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How the second SSI payment will be paid
SSI payments are issued one of two ways. For beneficiaries with bank accounts, the payments come as direct deposits. For those without bank accounts or those who prefer a more tangible method, payments are added to beneficiaries’ accounts with Direct Express cards. The second payment in August will be paid with whichever method you’ve signed up for.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to call the SSA if I receive a second SSI payment in a month?
If it’s a planned payment because the first of the next month falls on a weekend or federal holiday, you don’t need to contact anyone. You can check out the payment schedule on the SSA website. But if you get a second payment when it’s not scheduled, give the SSA a call.
Is a second SSI check paid a different way?
No, if the SSA is sending out two SSI payments in one month, they’ll both be paid in whichever way you’ve signed up to receive your funds.
Are there always two SSI checks in May?
No, some years will only have one check in May. However, because June 1 is a weekend, the SSA issues payments on the last business day of May to ensure you have your money before the first day of June.
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