In November, some Americans will receive two Social Security payments, a rare occurrence resulting from a scheduling quirk in the system.
Typically, the Social Security Administration (SSA) sends out one payment each week, with regular Social Security checks being delivered on the second, third, and fourth Wednesdays of the month.
Supplemental Social Security Income (SSI), which supports disabled individuals and older Americans with low incomes, is paid on the first of each month—unless that date falls on a weekend or holiday.
This year, December 1 falls on a Sunday, prompting the SSA to issue two SSI payments in November. The first check will arrive on Friday, November 1, and the second on Friday, November 29.
While this might seem like a bonus for the 7.4 million SSI recipients, it’s not extra money—just an early payment for December.
COLA Adjustment in 2025
Looking ahead, Social Security benefits and SSI payments will see a 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) in 2025. Though smaller than the 3.2% adjustment seen in 2024, it aligns with historical averages, which have been around 2.6% over the past two decades.
The reduction in the COLA reflects the cooling of inflation over the last year, as the pace of price growth has slowed.
Social Security Commissioner Martin O’Malley emphasized that the adjustment will help millions of Americans manage their expenses. AARP CEO Jo Ann Jenkins echoed these sentiments, noting that while the adjustment offers relief, many older Americans who rely on Social Security as a key income source still face financial challenges.
Inflation and Its Impact on Social Security
In 2023, Social Security beneficiaries received an 8.7% COLA, the largest increase since the 1980s, due to the 40-year inflation peak of 9.1% in June 2022. Although inflation has cooled, it has left a lasting impact, particularly on retirees who often rely heavily on Social Security to cover essential costs like groceries and gas.
As inflation stabilizes, these adjustments will continue to help Social Security recipients manage their daily expenses, though the challenges of rising living costs remain a concern for many.
