Millions of Supplemental Security Income beneficiaries will get the first of two December SSI payments from the Social Security Administration, worth up to $914 for individual filers, in a little under one week.
The first installment is set to be disbursed in six days, on Friday, Dec. 1. The second payment, which replaces January's payment, will go out four weeks later, on Friday, Dec. 29. Recipients normally get one payment each month, but December gets two because of a kink in the administration's schedule that is caused by Jan. 1 being a federal holiday. Dec. 30 and Dec. 31 are on a weekend.
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The maximum payment amount varies depending on how recipients file for the benefits. For individuals, the maximum rate for payments is $914 per month. The maximum rate for eligible couples for monthly payments is $1,371. Essential persons, who live with someone receiving SSI and provide them with necessary care, receive a monthly payment of up to $458.
Not every recipient will receive the maximum payment, but filers can see a personalized estimate through the SSA's calculator. The monthly benefit amount is expected to rise by 3.2% next year, according to the administration.
To qualify for the payments, recipients must be at least 65 and meet certain financial requirements. Some people under the age of 65 could qualify for the payments if they are at least partially blind or have a physical or mental disability that severely limits their daily activities for at least a year or is expected to result in death, according to the administration.
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Children could also be eligible for SSI payments if they are at least partially blind or have a physical or mental condition that seriously limits their activities for at least a year. Children could also receive SSI if their parents do not receive SSI benefits or if they have limited income and savings.
The SSI payments are separate from regular retirement payments, which can be received in addition to the supplemental aid for qualified seniors. However, the two payments are sent out on different schedules.