October Social Security, SSI Benefits Continue Amid Government Shutdown
As the government shutdown continues, Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments are expected to proceed without interruption. The majority of the over 71 million Americans reliant on these benefits will continue receiving their payments on time, despite the shutdown-related delay of a significant announcement regarding cost-of-living adjustments (COLA).
October Social Security Payment Schedule
The Social Security Administration (SSA) outlines specific dates for the October payments, ensuring recipients can budget effectively:
- Wednesday, Oct. 8: Birth dates between the 1st and 10th
- Wednesday, Oct. 15: Birth dates between the 11th and 20th
- Wednesday, Oct. 22: Birth dates between the 21st and the last day of the month
Will the Shutdown Affect Payments?
While certain services are restricted during the government shutdown, Social Security payments will remain unaffected. The SSA has contingency plans in place to ensure timely payment issuance as necessary data becomes available.
Delay in 2026 COLA Announcement
The SSA was slated to announce the 2026 COLA on October 15. However, due to the ongoing government shutdown, this announcement has been postponed until October 24. The COLA serves to adjust benefits according to inflation, utilizing data from the Labor Department’s Consumer Price Index.
Details on SSI Payments
Individuals receiving SSI payments can expect their October benefits. The first payment for October was made on the 1st, with a second payment scheduled for October 31, 2025. Due to a weekend overlap, the November payment will be issued early.
Impact of Overpayments on Benefits
Beneficiaries who have been overpaid may notice a reduction in their monthly checks. Since July, the SSA has withheld 50% of benefits for individuals yet to set up repayment plans for those overpayments. Approximately 2 million beneficiaries were targeted for this recovery initiative last fiscal year.
Eligibility for SSI
SSI provides financial assistance to those with limited income, aged 65 or older, blind, or disabled. Individuals typically do not earn more than $2,019 monthly to qualify. Applications can be processed online or in-person at local SSA offices.
Resource for Social Security Services
Despite the government shutdown, SSA offices and online services remain operational. However, some services, like issuing proof of income letters and updating earnings records, cannot be provided during this time.
For more information about Social Security and its services, check the SSA’s official resources or consult local offices to stay updated on any changes and schedules.
