Millions of Americans rely on Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) to support their financial needs due to disabilities that prevent them from working. For many, the monthly SSDI payment is crucial to covering living expenses.
This week, specific SSDI beneficiaries are set to receive their September payment. Here’s a comprehensive guide on who will receive their benefits, the payment schedule, what to do if your payment doesn’t arrive, and important updates for 2024.
Understanding the SSDI Payment Schedule
The Social Security Administration (SSA) distributes SSDI benefits on a staggered schedule, with payments generally issued on the second, third, and fourth Wednesdays of each month. The schedule is based on the beneficiary’s date of birth:
- Birthdays between the 1st and 10th: Payments are made on the second Wednesday of the month.
- Birthdays between the 11th and 20th: Payments are made on the third Wednesday of the month.
- Birthdays between the 21st and 31st: Payments are made on the fourth Wednesday of the month.
For September 2024, the key payment dates are as follows:
| Date | Birth Date Range | Payment Status |
|---|---|---|
| September 11, 2024 | 1st – 10th | Completed |
| September 18, 2024 | 11th – 20th | Completed |
| September 25, 2024 | 21st – 31st | Due this week |
Who Will Get Paid on September 25?
If your birthday falls between the 21st and 31st of any month, you can expect your SSDI payment to be deposited on Wednesday, September 25, 2024.
For those who were born on other dates, your payment for this month should have already been deposited.
What If Your Payment Doesn’t Arrive?
If your SSDI payment doesn’t arrive on the expected date, the SSA recommends waiting three business days before taking any action. Here are the steps to follow if your payment is delayed:
- Check with Your Bank: Sometimes, banks may delay the posting of payments. Contact your bank to confirm if the payment is pending.
- Contact the SSA: If there is no issue with your bank, you can contact the SSA directly. You can reach them by phone, online, or visit your local SSA office.
Special Considerations for Some Beneficiaries
For beneficiaries who started receiving SSDI before May 1997 or who also collect Supplemental Security Income (SSI), the payment schedule differs.
These individuals receive their SSDI payments on the 3rd of each month, while SSI payments are made on the 1st.
Important Updates for 2024
- COLA Increase: The 2024 Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) will bring a 3.2% increase to SSDI benefits. This adjustment is intended to offset rising living costs. Starting January 2024, the average SSDI benefit for a disabled worker will increase from $1,489 to $1,537 per month. The total monthly benefit for a disabled worker with a spouse and child will rise from $2,636 to $2,720.
- Income Limits for SSDI: The income ceiling for SSDI recipients has also been adjusted. In 2024, beneficiaries can earn up to $1,550 per month ($2,590 for blind workers) without risking their SSDI eligibility. This adjustment aims to provide more flexibility for beneficiaries who are capable of part-time work.
- Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) Limit: The SGA limit has been increased to reflect changes in the National Average Wage Index. Exceeding this limit can lead to a loss of SSDI benefits, so it’s important for beneficiaries to be aware of these thresholds.
What to Do If You Lose SSDI Eligibility
If your earnings exceed the SGA limit, you may lose SSDI benefits. However, the SSA offers a “Trial Work Period” that allows beneficiaries to test their ability to work without losing benefits immediately. This period lasts nine months and provides a safety net for those looking to re-enter the workforce.
Conclusion
For those relying on SSDI, it’s essential to be aware of the payment schedule, income limits, and changes brought by the 2024 COLA. This week’s payment on September 25 will benefit those born between the 21st and 31st of any month.
If you don’t receive your payment, follow the steps outlined above to resolve the issue promptly. Stay informed about any further changes to SSDI by regularly checking updates from the SSA.
FAQs
1. Who is eligible to receive SSDI benefits?
SSDI is available to individuals with physical or mental impairments severe enough to prevent them from working for at least 12 months or that are expected to result in death.
2. What should I do if I don’t receive my SSDI payment on time?
Wait three business days, then contact your bank to confirm the delay. If the issue persists, reach out to the SSA directly.
3. What is the 2024 COLA increase for SSDI benefits?
The 2024 COLA will increase SSDI benefits by 3.2%, with the average monthly benefit rising to $1,537.
4. Can I work and still receive SSDI benefits?
Yes, but your earnings must not exceed the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limit, which is $1,550 per month in 2024 for most beneficiaries.
5. How are SSDI payments determined?
Payments are based on your average lifetime earnings before your disability began. The higher your earnings, the higher your benefits.
References
- Social Security Administration (SSA)
- AARP
