Social Security checks with 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment delayed until January for some reasons

Millions of people in the US are eagerly waiting for the increased Social Security checks following the 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). But because of how the Social Security Administration (SSA) schedules its payments, not everyone will get their money at the same time.

Some will see their boosted amount in their accounts on December 31, while others will need to wait until January 2026.

Why Some People Will Get Their Checks Early

The SSA normally sends out payments on fixed dates each month. However, if a scheduled payment falls on a weekend or holiday, they move it to the closest business day. That’s what’s happening this year. January 1 is a federal holiday, so a small group of recipients will get their checks a day early—on December 31.

This early payment will go to people who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Since SSI payments are usually sent on the first of every month, the SSA moves the January 1 payment to the last business day of December.

Who Will Get Their Payment in December?

• Nearly 7.5 million SSI recipients will receive their increased checks on December 31, 2025
• This includes people who only get SSI or receive both Social Security and SSI
• The early payment is still meant for January 2026 but is released early due to the holiday

What Is the 2.8% COLA Increase All About?

Every year, the SSA adjusts Social Security payments to keep up with inflation. This adjustment is called the Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA).

Here’s what you need to know about this year’s increase:

• The COLA for 2026 is 2.8%, higher than the 2.5% for 2025
• It helps cover rising costs of food, rent, healthcare, and daily living expenses
• All eligible recipients, including retirees, disabled individuals, and SSI beneficiaries, will benefit from this raise

Who Will Get Their Payment in January?

People who receive retirement, survivor, or disability benefits will get their new payment amounts in January 2026. The payment dates depend on your birthdate and follow this schedule:

So, depending on when your birthday falls, you might not receive your payment until the middle or even the end of January.

What Should You Do Now?

If you’re a Social Security recipient, here’s how you can stay prepared:

• Check your payment type – Are you receiving SSI, retirement, disability, or survivor benefits?
• Mark your calendar – Based on your benefit type and birthday, note your payment date
• Sign up for direct deposit – This is the fastest and safest way to get your money
• Visit SSA.gov – Stay updated through the official website or your personal SSA account

While everyone eligible will receive the 2.8% increase in their Social Security benefits, the actual date of payment depends on the SSA’s calendar and your type of benefit. SSI recipients will see their money on December 31, 2025, while others will need to wait until January 2026, based on their birthdate.

It’s always a good idea to stay informed and check the official SSA website to avoid any confusion about payment dates.

FAQ

1. Why are some Social Security checks coming on December 31?
Because January 1 is a federal holiday, SSI payments are sent a day earlier. This year, nearly 7.5 million SSI recipients will get their payments on December 31.

2. Does the December 31 check include the 2.8% COLA increase?
Yes, the December 31 payment reflects the 2.8% COLA for 2026, even though it’s paid in 2025.

3. Who gets Social Security payments in January 2026?
People who receive retirement, survivor, or disability benefits will get their checks in January, based on their birthdate.

4. What is the payment schedule for January 2026?

• 1st–10th birthdays: Jan 14
• 11th–20th birthdays: Jan 21
• 21st–31st birthdays: Jan 28

5. How can I make sure I receive my payment on time?
Use direct deposit and check your SSA account regularly for updates.