One of the questions we get from first time Social Security beneficiaries is when they can expect their first payment. In this post, we will review the Social Security benefits start date and when you can expect your benefit payments.
This Post will Cover:
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- How long it takes for a social security application to be approved
- Social Security Benefits Start Date
- Why You Need To Sign Up for Electronic Payment
- How Social Security Payment Calendar Works
How long it takes for a social security application to be approved
Generally, the processing times of your Social Security Application depend on the accuracy of your application and the number of applications the Social Security Administration (SSA) is processing at the time.
However, usually, once you submit your Social Security application, it can take the Social Security Administration about six weeks to process your application and start your benefits.
However, it might take longer if you supply incorrect information, or the SSA needs you to provide additional information in order to complete the processing of your application.
Social Security Benefits Start Date
An individual first becomes eligible to receive Social Security benefits during the month after the month of their 62nd birthday.
Once you have applied, it could take up to three months to receive your first benefit payment. Social Security benefits are paid monthly, starting in the month after your birthday.
So if a person was born in August, his or her first month of eligibility is September.
Since the Social Security Administration pays individuals a month behind, the person will receive the September benefit in October.
If you would like to receive your first payment in the first month you are eligible, you will need to apply three months before your birthday.
Click here for the current Social Security Payment Schedule.
Why You Need To Sign Up for Electronic Payment
As of March 1, 2013, Social Security stopped mailing paper checks. Beneficiaries are now required to receive their monthly payments electronically.
There are two ways you can receive your benefits:
Direct deposit of your disability payment: This option deposits your payment into your bank account on the day you are paid.
You need a checking or savings account with a bank or credit union to use this option.
Direct Express Debit Card: If you do not sign up for direct deposit, your benefits will be paid to you via Direct Express debit card option.
The Direct Express debit card works anywhere Debit Mastercard are accepted.
You can also use your Direct Express debit card to get cash back at the grocery store or to purchase money orders at the post office.
How Social Security Payment Schedule Works
When you receive your Social Security Retirement Benefits (SS) or Disability Benefits (SSDI) depends on your birthday.
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- If your birthday falls between the 1st and 10th of the month, you’ll receive SSDI benefits on the 2nd Wednesday of every month.
- If your birthday falls between the 11th and 20th of the month, your benefits will come on the 3rd Wednesday of every month.
- If your birthday falls between the 21st and the last day of the month, your payments will come on the 4th Wednesday of every month.
If you have any questions about the Social Security Benefits Start Date, please ask us in the comments section below.
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