If you’re a Social Security recipient expecting a payment on November 27, you may be in for a surprise.
Some retirees won’t receive their monthly benefits on this date, but don’t worry—it’s not a sign of anything wrong.
Let’s break down why some groups are excluded, when to expect payments, and what to do if your money doesn’t arrive on time.
Why Some Won’t Get Paid on November 27
The Social Security Administration (SSA) issues payments based on specific schedules tied to your circumstances, such as your birth date, the type of benefits you receive, and when you started receiving them.
Here are the key reasons you may not see a payment on November 27:
- Early November Payments
- If you already received your check or deposit on November 1, 13, or 20, you won’t receive another one on November 27.
- Payments are distributed throughout the month to streamline processing and avoid delays.
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- SSI beneficiaries receive their payments separately. For November, SSI payments will arrive on November 29, 2024, not November 27.
- Other Payment Groups
- Some retirees qualify for their next payments in early December (starting December 3). These include those who started receiving Social Security before May 1997 or those eligible for both SSI and Social Security.
December Social Security Payment Schedule
Here’s a breakdown of upcoming payment dates for retirees in December 2024:
| Payment Date | Who Gets Paid? |
|---|---|
| December 1 | Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients. |
| December 3 | Retirees who started benefits before May 1997 or those eligible for both SSI & SS. |
| December 11 | Retirees born on the 1st–10th of any month. |
| December 18 | Retirees born on the 11th–20th of any month. |
| December 24 | Retirees born on the 21st–31st (adjusted for the Christmas holiday). |
Key Adjustments in December
- Christmas Payment Adjustment: Since December 25 is a federal holiday, payments originally scheduled for that day will be issued on December 24.
Expected Payment Amounts
The SSA recently updated payment amounts following the COLA (Cost-of-Living Adjustment). Here’s what to expect:
- Average Monthly Benefit: Retired workers can expect approximately $1,927 per month.
- Maximum Monthly Payment: The highest benefit for December will be $4,873.
These figures reflect the 2024 COLA adjustments, which help recipients keep up with inflation and rising living costs.
What to Do If Your Payment Is Delayed
If you’re expecting a payment but don’t receive it by the expected date:
- Check Your Bank or Mailbox
- Most payments arrive on time, but some financial institutions may experience processing delays.
- Allow Extra Time
- Wait three mailing days before contacting the SSA about a delayed payment.
- Contact the SSA
- If your payment hasn’t arrived after three days, call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 or visit their website for assistance.
While it may be frustrating to miss out on a November 27 payment, the SSA’s staggered schedule ensures efficient distribution for millions of beneficiaries.
Understanding the payment dates and schedules can help you plan ahead and avoid unnecessary stress during the holiday season.
