Millions of Americans will receive Social Security payments this week. More than 75 million people benefit from Social Security programs, including retirement, spousal, survivor, or disability benefits. These payments are issued monthly in a single sum. However, payment dates vary based on birth dates and benefit types.
Payment Schedule Details
This week’s payments are slated for recipients with birthdays falling between the 1st and 10th of any month. These payments, due on Wednesday, September 9, will cover retirement, spousal, and survivor benefits. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is excluded, as it is paid at the start of the month. Those receiving both SSI and other benefits should have received their payment on Thursday, September 3.
Remaining September Payment Dates
- Wednesday, September 16: For beneficiaries born between the 11th and 20th.
- Wednesday, September 23: For beneficiaries born between the 21st and 31st.
Retirement payments differ based on a worker’s lifetime earnings and age when benefits begin. In 2026, the maximum benefit is $4,152 monthly for those retiring at full age, who’ve consistently earned the taxable maximum. This amount decreases to $2,969 for those starting benefits at age 62. A retiree waiting until age 70 receives up to $5,181. For those reaching 62 in 2026, full retirement age is 67.
Most beneficiaries receive less than the max. July 2026 data shows the average retired worker earned $2,085.98 monthly. Overall, including retirees, survivors, and disabled individuals, the average monthly benefit was $1,940.08. Disabled workers received $1,635.27, while widows and widowers averaged $1,932.74.
Looking Ahead: COLA 2027
New inflation data will soon indicate Social Security payment adjustments for 2027. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) plans to release August’s Consumer Price Index on September 11. This publication will contribute to calculating the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for next year. Projections suggest a 3.6% increase according to the Senior Citizens League, with AARP projecting 3.5%, both above the 2.8% increase applied in 2026. These are initial estimates, subject to change with August and September data.
COLA ensures benefits keep pace with inflation. The SSA uses the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W) to calculate it. The comparison of July to September’s CPI-W average with the previous year’s determines the next year’s COLA. If prices remain static, COLA doesn’t change.
July has already contributed to the 2027 calculation. After August data on September 11, September’s figures will be awaited. The BLS will release the final reading on October 14, deciding the official 2027 COLA. This adjustment will affect benefits payable in December 2026, with beneficiaries receiving payments in January 2027.
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