This is a common question we get when we do a full Social Security Benefit session. “When will I receive my first check”. It’s important to understand that As of March 1, 2013, the Social Security Administration stopped mailing paper checks. There are two ways you can receive your benefits:
1. Direct deposit of your Social Security checks. This option puts them right into your bank account on the day they are paid.
You don’t have to worry about your check being lost or worry that funds will not get to the bank in time if you are out of town. Sign up or learn more at Frequently Asked Questions About Social Security Direct Deposit.
2. 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. This card will work anywhere that takes Debit Mastercard®. 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.
Social Security checks are deposited on the second, third, or fourth Wednesday of each month, depending on your day of birth. The Social Security check schedule works as follows:
If you were born on the:
1st–10th of the month: Expect your Social Security check to be deposited on the 2nd Wednesday of each month.
11th–20th of the month: Expect your Social Security check to be deposited on the 3rd Wednesday of each month.
21st–31st of the month: Expect your Social Security check to be deposited on the 4th Wednesday of each month.
Exceptions to When Social Security Checks Arrive
For every rule, there are always exceptions. If you fall into one of the categories below, your check may arrive on an alternate schedule.
You started receiving benefits before 1997: Your Social Security check is paid on the third day of the month. You can request to change this according to the day of birth schedule above.
You are receiving both Social Security benefits and SSI payments: Expect your Social Security check to be deposited on the third day of the month.
Holiday exceptions: If the day your Social Security check is supposed to be deposited is a holiday, your check will be deposited the previous day.
If you have questions on how to Maximize your Social Security Benefits, contact us today. This is what we do! Helping thousands of people that look for ways to maximize their retirement and live a better life.
My last day worked was 5/29/18.
When should I get my first check
Rose Mary, it depends on when you apply and your birthday. If your birthday is the 1st-10th then it will be deposited on the 2nd wed of the month. 11th-20th 3rd wed and 21st-31st 4th wed of the month.
Can you tell me what day my first SS payment will be deposited?
Janis, it depends on when you apply and when your birthday falls. If your birthday is the 1st-10th then it will be deposited on the 2nd wed of the month. 11th-20th 3rd wed and 21st-31st 4th wed of the month.
If I sign up for my so retirement benefits three mounts prier to my retirement date will I receive my deposit on the third Wednesday of Jan 2019 ?
It depends on what day your birthday falls on. If your birthday is the 1st-10th then it will be deposited on the 2nd wed of the month. 11th-20th 3rd wed and 21st-31st 4th wed of the month.
I turn 66 on October 16, I applied for SS in September. I told the administration that I wanted to receive my first payment in November, so I can get the full benefits. I just saw a deposit for $267.90 from Federal Benefit Credit 10/09, I don’t understand why.
Frances- You will need to check with them directly on this you can call 800-772-1213. We do not have access to your social security records.
If i applied for social security retirement 1 or 2 months after full retirement age will the first payment be retroactive?
Joe,
You can request up to a six month look back. But you may not want to, each month you delay your Social Security benefit will go up slightly. Happy retirement!
If I am retiring June 4 2019 when should I apply for my first Social security check
Darlene,
Your retirement date and Social Security date do not have to be the same. Depending on your health and other assets delaying your SS until age 70 can reap huge benefits.
If you want to make an informed decision I would recommend that you have us put a plan together for you.
Best,
Faye
I was approved for SSDI on 10/09/2018. When should I expect my first check? Thank you.
Darlene
It would shift depending on your birthdate. 1st – 10th is the 2nd wed, 11th – 20th 3rd Wed and 21-31st is 4th Wed of the month. If you have not received yet I would recommend calling Social Security Directly 800-772-1213
Thank you,
Faye
Born 10/9/52
Want full freight social security.
Applied Aug-Sept 2018.
When do I get my first check
I’m still working.
I live in Florida
William,
Since your birthday is on the 9th it should deposit on the 2nd Wed of each month. It should arrive 11/14. If not call Social Security directly 800-772-1213
Thanks, Faye
I have reached full retirement age….my two young children qualify for dependent benefits since I will begin to receive my social security retirement benefits. Question: ….Will their benefits come at the same as mine?
William,
If you applied for both at the same time there is a good chance that they may come at the same time. But if you applied for yours first then theirs after there could be a delay. If there is a delay you can request up to six months back pay.
Let us know if we can help further,
Faye
I am retiring on December 1st 2018, so my first check will come in January. I was born on the 21st of May so that will be January 23rd. Will my first check be for 1 months benefits or one month and 3 weeks benefits.
Scott,
Due to your birthday being on the 21st it should be deposited on the 4th Wed of each month. Unless you ask for up to a six month look back, typically it would be for 1 month of benefit.
If we can help further please let us know. Faye
when do I receive my check
It will depend on when you apply and other factors.
If you would like further help you can sign up for a plan and we would be happy to assist! Faye