$967 Social Security Payment on May 1: Who Qualifies & How to Check

Millions of Americans are anticipating the $967 Social Security payment scheduled for May 1, 2024. This mid-month disbursement brings crucial financial support to retirees, disabled workers, and other beneficiaries. But who exactly qualifies for this payment? This complete guide explains eligibility requirements, payment dates, and how to verify if you’re among the recipients.

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Who Gets the $967 Social Security Check on May 1?

The May 1 payment is part of Social Security’s regular disbursement schedule, primarily for beneficiaries who:

✔ Receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
✔ Qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
✔ Started claiming benefits before May 1997
✔ Are low-income seniors or disabled individuals

Why $967? Understanding the Amount

This payment reflects the average SSI benefit for 2024, though exact amounts vary based on:

• Income level
• Living arrangements (individual vs. couple)
• State supplemental payments (if applicable)

For a full breakdown of benefit calculations, see our Social Security Payment Guide.

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How to Check If You’re Eligible for the May 1 Payment

1. Check Your Benefit Category

• SSI Recipients: Always paid on the 1st of each month
• Retirees/SSDI: Paid May 1 only if you started benefits before 1997
• Newer Beneficiaries: Paid May 8, 15, or 22 (based on birth date)

2. Verify Your Payment Online

1. Log in to your mySocialSecurity account
2. Check the “Payments” section
3. Look for a May 1 deposit with amount details

3. What If You Don’t See the Payment?

• Wait 3 mailing days for paper checks
• Contact SSA at 1-800-772-1213 if funds don’t arrive by May 4
• Check for bank holds if using direct deposit

For troubleshooting, read our Missing Social Security Payments FAQ.

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Key Deadlines & Future Payment Dates

2024 Social Security Schedule (Remaining Months)

• May 8, 15, 22: Regular retirement/SSDI payments
• June 3: Next SSI payment
• July 1: Mid-year SSI disbursement

Upcoming Changes for 2025

• COLA Increase: Expected 2-3% boost (announced October 2024)
• Potential New Stimulus: Congress debating extra support for seniors

For official updates, visit the Social Security Administration.

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FAQs: $967 Social Security Payment

Q1: Is the $967 payment only for SSI recipients?
Mostly yes, but some pre-1997 retirees may also receive May 1 payments.

Q2: Will everyone get exactly $967?
No, individual amounts vary. $967 is the average SSI payment.

Q3: What if my May 1 payment is late?
Wait 3 business days, then contact SSA with your claim number.

Q4: Do I need to apply separately for this payment?
No, it’s automatic if you’re already enrolled in SSI/SSDI.

Q5: How is this different from regular Social Security?
SSI is need-based; traditional Social Security depends on work credits.

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Maximizing Your Social Security Benefits

1. Tax Implications

• SSI: Never taxable
• SSDI/Retirement: Up to 85% taxable if income exceeds $25,000 (single)

2. Avoiding Payment Disruptions

• Update address changes immediately
• Report direct deposit updates 30 days in advance
• Respond to SSA mail to prevent suspensions

3. Scam Alerts

Beware of calls/texts claiming:

• “Your $967 payment is suspended” (SSA never contacts this way)
• “Pay fees to release your money” (all SSA services are free)

For protection tips, read our Social Security Scam Prevention Guide.

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Key Takeaways

• May 1 payment mainly goes to SSI recipients and pre-1997 beneficiaries
• Check your mySSA account to confirm eligibility
• Average amount is $967 but varies by case
• Future payments follow a set monthly schedule

Stay informed about your benefits by regularly checking SSA.gov and signing up for our Senior Finance Newsletter.