November is here, and along with the excitement of Thanksgiving, some Social Security recipients might receive an unexpected financial boost.

If you’re part of the Social Security or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) programs, you could be in for a pleasant surprise. At The GrayVine, we’re committed to keeping our community informed and financially prepared, so let’s dive into the details of this potential bonus.

Understanding the Social Security Schedule Quirk​

Social Security payments are typically as regular as clockwork, with one payment per month being the norm.

However, due to a calendar quirk in the final months of the year, some recipients will see an extra check in their mailbox or bank account this November.

While this isn't a new occurrence—the Social Security Administration (SSA) plans its payment schedules well in advance—it's easy to miss if you're not keeping a close eye on the calendar.

Who Gets the Extra Check?​

The beneficiaries of this November boon are those enrolled in the SSI program, which supports disabled adults and low-income seniors.

Some SSI recipients also draw from the traditional Social Security retirement benefits, which kick in from age 62. For these individuals, November could be a month of triple blessings.

Here's the breakdown of the payment schedule:

• SSI recipients will receive their regular November payment on Friday, November 1.
• Those who began claiming Social Security before May 1997, or who receive both SSI and Social Security benefits, will also get their Social Security payment on November 1.

• A second SSI payment will arrive on Friday, November 29, representing the December payment. Since December 1 is a Sunday, the SSA is delivering this payment a tad early.

In essence, SSI recipients will enjoy two payments in November—on the 1st and the 29th. If they also draw from Social Security, they'll receive that check on November 1 as well.

Regular Social Security Payment Dates for November​

For those not on SSI, Social Security payments will follow the standard schedule:

• Born between the 1st and 10th—Expect your check on November 13.
• Born between the 11th and 20th—Your benefit arrives on November 20.
• Born between the 21st and 31st—Look out for your payment on November 27.

The Upcoming Social Security COLA Increase​

Adding to the good news, Social Security recipients can anticipate a 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) with their 2025 payments.

This adjustment, announced last week, means the average beneficiary will see their monthly check increase by about $50, reaching an estimated $1,976 per month.

When will this increase take effect? Here's the schedule:

• If your birthday falls between the 1st and 10th—your first COLA increase will be on January 8.
• If your birthday falls between the 11th and 20th—Your COLA bump comes on January 15.
• If your birthday falls between the 21st and 31st—The new COLA will be in your January 22 payment.
• For those who started collecting Social Security before May 1997 or who receive both Social Security and SSI, the new COLA will appear on January 3.
• SSI recipients will see their 2025 COLA with their December 31, 2024, payment.

In a previous story, it was announced that SSI recipients are set to get $288 more on their SSI’s next year.

To ensure you're fully benefiting from these payments, it's crucial to stay informed about the payment schedules and any changes to the program.

If you're eligible for SSI and haven't applied, or if you're unsure about your payment dates, visit the SSA's website or contact your local Social Security office for assistance.

Don't let this opportunity slip through your fingers. Stay alert, stay informed, and let's secure those extra checks together!
Have you ever experienced a surprise in your Social Security payments? Do you have tips for managing these benefits or questions about the upcoming COLA increase? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below.