In just six days, eligible retirees could see a significant boost in their bank accounts, with Social Security payments of up to $2,710 scheduled for August 28, 2024.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has already distributed most payments for the month, but a final round is set to go out soon. Here’s what you need to know to determine if you qualify and how much you might receive.
Who Will Receive the Payment on August 28?
This final August payment is specifically for retirees who meet the following conditions:
- Birth Date: You were born between the 21st and 31st of any month.
- No SSI: You are not currently receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
- Benefits Start Date: You began collecting Social Security benefits after April 30, 1997.
- Ongoing Eligibility: You have remained eligible for Social Security benefits.
If you fit these criteria, you should expect a direct deposit on August 28, regardless of the amount.
For those who still receive paper checks, there may be a slight delay due to mailing times, so it’s recommended to wait three days before reporting a missing or late check.
How Much Can You Expect?
Not everyone will receive the maximum payment of $2,710. The amount you receive depends on several factors, including your earnings history and the age at which you began collecting Social Security benefits.
The SSA calculates your benefit based on your highest 35 years of earnings, so the more you earned during those years, the higher your payment will be.
As of July 2024, the average monthly payment for all retired workers is $1,919. However, the maximum benefit for someone who started collecting at age 62 is $2,710. To qualify for this higher amount, you must meet the following requirements:
Requirements to Receive $2,710
- 35 Years of Work: You must have worked for a minimum of 35 years.
- Earnings: During those 35 years, your earnings must have equaled or exceeded the taxable maximum for Social Security.
- Early Filing: You filed for Social Security benefits at age 62.
- Payroll Taxes: You paid sufficient payroll taxes in jobs covered by the SSA.
Achieving the maximum benefit is challenging, particularly if you filed early at age 62. Early filing can reduce your benefits by as much as 30%, compared to waiting until full retirement age or later.
For those who delay filing, monthly benefits can increase by up to 24%, which can make a significant difference in your financial security during retirement.
What If You Don’t Qualify for the Maximum?
Even if you don’t qualify for the $2,710 maximum payment, it’s important to understand how your benefits are calculated and how you can maximize them. Consider whether delaying retirement could be a viable option for you.
While early filing offers immediate access to funds, it comes at a cost. On the other hand, delaying retirement until full retirement age—or even beyond—can significantly increase your monthly payments.
What to Do if Your Check Is Late
If you’re expecting a paper check and it hasn’t arrived on time, the SSA recommends waiting for at least three mailing days before reporting it as missing or late.
This brief delay is often due to postal service processing times and doesn’t usually indicate a problem with your benefits.
The upcoming payment on August 28 is a significant event for many retirees, especially those who have carefully planned their retirement to maximize their Social Security benefits.
Whether you’re receiving the full $2,710 or a different amount, understanding the factors that influence your payment is crucial for managing your retirement finances.
Keep in mind that every decision—from when to start collecting benefits to how long you work—can impact the financial support you receive from Social Security.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the August 28 Social Security payment?
Retirees born between the 21st and 31st who started benefits after April 1997.
What is the maximum payment on August 28?
The maximum payment is $2,710, depending on your work and earnings history.
What should I do if my check is late?
Wait three mailing days before reporting a missing or late check.
How can I maximize my Social Security benefits?
Work for 35 years, earn the taxable maximum, and delay filing until at least full retirement age.
What is the average Social Security payment in 2024?
As of July 2024, the average payment is $1,919 per month.