8 million Americans that benefit from an SSI payment through Social Security will get a bigger payment for the month of January today.
The increase is thanks to the COLA adjustment announced by the Social Security Administration in October.
The increase is 5.9% and SSI beneficiaries can expect their payments today, Dec. 30.
Related: 5 biggest changes in 2022 for Social Security benefits
Payment dates for SSI are on the first of the month, but Jan. 1 is a federal holiday.
That, combined with the holiday falling on a Saturday, has pushed the payment date back to Dec. 30, 2021.
This happens every year because of the holiday.
Related: There may be some huge bills that will surprise you in 2022, here’s how to prepare
How much will SSI checks be?
Different people get different payments when it comes to SSI.
Some states have programs where they add money to SSI payments that residents get federally.
Things like income or Social Security can diminish your payment amount.
If someone else pays your bills or you live with someone who has an income you could see smaller payments.
The maximum people will see per month for 2022 is $841.
Eligible couples will see $1,261.
An essential person sees $421 per month.
SSI will rise by about $34 on average, bringing the average payment to $621 for 2022.
It was an average of $587 in 2021.
What is SSI and who is allowed to claim the payment?
SSI stands for Supplemental Security Income.
The program gives monthly payments to both kids and adults who are blind, have a disability, or have income and assets below a certain threshold.
People over age 65 may meet these qualifications as well and get the payments in addition to their Social Security.
Related: 22 states will give Americans more food stamp SNAP benefits in January worth $95
Others over the age of 65 can get the payments without disabilities if they meet the financial threshold.
Anyone may apply, but the payments are only made to those age 65 and older or blind or disabled people.
Applicants must show they have limited income and resources.
Only U.S. citizens, nationals, and some noncitizens may collect these benefits.
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