As the end of January approaches, many Americans who rely on Social Security benefits are eagerly awaiting their next payment. For some, this payment is more than just a regular deposit—it’s a much-needed financial boost to help kickstart the new year.

Whether it’s covering everyday expenses, saving for upcoming needs, or simply making life a little more comfortable, these payments play a crucial role for countless individuals across the country.


If you're one of the millions receiving Social Security or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you might be wondering whether you're part of the group expecting a $970 payout this Friday.

With so much anticipation surrounding these payments, it's important to know whether you’re included and when to expect the funds in your account. Let’s break down the details so you can mark your calendar, prepare accordingly, and make the most of the financial boost coming your way.


Understanding the SSA Payment Schedule

The Social Security Administration (SSA) is known for its timely, predictable payments to retired workers, survivors, and recipients of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and SSI.

January has been a busy month with payments already issued to SSI recipients, as well as those who started receiving benefits before May 1997 and individuals with birthdays from the 1st to the 31st of the month.

But the excitement doesn’t end there—there’s one more payment date to keep in mind: Friday, January 31st. On this day, certain beneficiaries will receive nearly $970, thanks to an advance payment for February.


Who’s Eligible for the $970 Advance Payment?

This specific payment on January 31st is an advance for February 2025 and is primarily aimed at SSI beneficiaries. Because February 1st falls on a Saturday, the SSA is issuing the payment a day early to ensure recipients get it on time.

The maximum monthly SSI amounts have increased in 2025, with the new figures being $967 for an eligible individual, $1,450 for a couple, and $484 for an essential person. The exact amount you’ll receive depends on your personal situation.

Expect to see some adjustments in your payment, as these changes reflect cost-of-living increases and other economic factors. The SSA will send out detailed letters explaining any modifications to your benefits, including a breakdown of the new amounts.


Mark Your Calendars: SSA Payment Schedule for February 2025

Here’s a handy guide to the upcoming SSA payments in February:

• Friday, January 31: SSI beneficiaries (Payment for February 2025)
• Monday, February 3: Beneficiaries who began receiving payments before May 1997
• Wednesday, February 12: Beneficiaries with birth dates between 1st and 10th
• Wednesday, February 19: Beneficiaries with birth dates between 11th and 20th
• Wednesday, February 26: Beneficiaries with birth dates between 21st and 31st
• Friday, February 28: SSI beneficiaries (Payment for March 2025)

New SSA Payment Amounts for 2025

Thanks to a 2.5 percent cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), Social Security benefit amounts are seeing a slight increase this year. Here’s a look at the new average payments:

• Retired workers: $1,927 to $1,976
• Couples where both receive benefits: $3,014 to $3,089
• Widowed mother with two children: $3,669 to $3,761
• Elderly widow(er): $1,788 to $1,832
• Disabled worker, spouse, and one or more children: $2,757 to $2,826
• All disabled workers: $1,542 to $1,580

The maximum federal SSI amounts have also increased, and here’s a breakdown of the new limits:

• 62 years old: $2,831
• 65 years old: $3,374
• 66 years old: $3,795
• 67 years old: $4,043
• 70 years old or older: $5,108

How to Check if You’re Receiving the Payment

Not sure if you’re on track for the $970 payment this Friday? Here are a few ways to find out:

1. Review the SSA payment schedule to see if your birthday or benefit start date matches the January 31st payment date.
2. Check your SSA online account. If you haven’t set one up yet, now is a good time to do so. It’s a quick and secure way to stay on top of your benefits.
3. Look out for a detailed letter from the SSA. It will outline any changes to your benefits and confirm the exact amount you’ll be receiving.

As the January 31st payment approaches, it’s important to stay informed and ensure you’re prepared.

Whether you’re receiving the $970 advance or another scheduled payment, keeping track of the SSA’s timeline can help you manage your finances more effectively.

If you’re unsure about your payment status, don’t hesitate to check your SSA account or look out for a detailed letter. We hope this information helps you navigate the upcoming changes with ease.



Are you expecting a payment this Friday? How will you be using the extra funds? Or maybe you have tips for managing your Social Security benefits that you’d like to share with others. We’d love to hear from you! Drop a comment below and join the discussion!

Also read: Mark your calendar: February 2025 Social Security payment dates revealed