SSI Payment Update 967 Social Security Disbursement Eligibility and Schedule

SSI Payment Update: $967 Social Security Disbursement

This article explains why some beneficiaries may see a $967 SSI disbursement, who qualifies for SSI, and how the payment schedule works. It gives practical steps to check payments and what to do if you think the amount is wrong.

What the $967 figure can mean

A single SSI payment of $967 can come from a few scenarios. That amount may represent:

• Combined federal SSI and a state supplemental payment.
• Retroactive or back pay owed after a successful application or appeal.
• A one-time adjustment or correction applied to a regular payment.

SSI federal payments alone follow the Federal Benefit Rate (FBR), which changes with cost-of-living adjustments. Many states add a monthly supplement, which can vary widely.

SSI Payment Eligibility

SSI is a needs-based program for people who are aged 65 or older, blind, or disabled and have limited income and resources. Key eligibility points include:

• Age or disability status: 65+, blind, or disabled as defined by SSA.
• Income limits: SSA counts most income when calculating benefit amounts. Some income is excluded under SSA rules.
• Resource limits: Typically $2,000 for an individual and $3,000 for a couple in countable resources.
• Residency and citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen or an eligible noncitizen and reside in a qualifying place.

Examples of countable and excluded income include wages, pensions, food stamps, and some living arrangement considerations. Exact calculations can be complex; use SSA tools or speak to a representative for specifics.

SSI Payment Schedule

Understanding when SSI is paid helps you plan. SSI payments are usually made on the first day of each month.

• If the 1st falls on a weekend or federal holiday, SSA typically issues the payment on the preceding business day.
• People who receive both Social Security retirement or disability benefits and SSI may see different schedules if their Social Security benefits follow the birthday-based schedule and SSI is still issued on the 1st.

To know your exact date, check your monthly statement online using your mySocialSecurity account or call SSA.

How retroactive payments affect the schedule

Retroactive awards due to delayed approvals or successful appeals can result in larger one-time deposits. These are usually labeled on your bank statement or SSA correspondence so you can tell a lump-sum back payment from a regular monthly payment.

How to Check and Verify a $967 SSI Payment

Follow these steps to confirm any SSI payment amount, including a $967 disbursement:

1. Log into your mySocialSecurity account to view payment history and amount details.
2. Check your bank statement for the deposit description—SSA often includes a unique identifier.
3. Review any letters from SSA about changes, retroactive payments, or state supplements.
4. Call SSA at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) to ask about a specific payment.

If the payment seems to include back pay, ask SSA for a breakdown listing the months and amounts covered.

What to Do If the Payment Is Incorrect

If you believe the $967 payment is wrong, take these steps:

• Save your bank statement and any SSA letters related to the deposit.
• Contact SSA promptly to request an explanation or accounting of the payment.
• If SSA confirms an overpayment, ask about repayment options or an appeal if you disagree.

Overpayments can often be handled through repayment plans, waivers, or adjustments, depending on circumstances.

Common reasons SSA might adjust payments

• Changes in income or living arrangements.
• Receipt of other benefits or lump sums.
• Administrative errors or late processing of eligibility updates.

Applying or Appealing SSI Decisions

To start SSI benefits, you can apply online for certain cases or contact SSA to schedule an interview. If you disagree with a decision, you have the right to appeal.

• Application: Begin at ssa.gov or call your local office to set an appointment.
• Appeal: File a request for reconsideration, and follow SSA’s appeals timeline closely.

Real-World Example

Case study: Maria is 68 and lives in a state that adds a $150 monthly supplement to federal SSI. Her federal SSI was $817. After a retroactive award for two months when her application was delayed, she received a lump sum plus her regular monthly amount. Her bank deposit showed $967. Maria logged into mySocialSecurity, confirmed the months covered, and saved the SSA notice for her records.

This example shows how supplemental payments and retroactive awards can create a $967 deposit even if the federal rate alone is lower.

Key Takeaways

• A $967 SSI disbursement may include federal SSI, state supplements, or retroactive payments.
• SSI payments are typically made on the 1st of the month; adjustments can change a single deposit amount.
• Always verify payments through mySocialSecurity, bank records, or SSA customer service.

If you need help understanding a payment or applying, contact the Social Security Administration or your local benefits counselor for free guidance.