Sonali TiwaryThe Social Security Administration has confirmed the August 2026 payment schedule, with five separate payment dates distributing benefits to more than 70 million Americans. Here is the complete schedule:
August 2026 Payment Schedule
| Date | Who Gets Paid |
|---|---|
| July 31 | SSI (Supplemental Security Income) — paid early because August 1 falls on a Saturday |
| August 3 | Beneficiaries who began receiving payments before May 1997, plus those receiving both SSI and retirement/disability |
| August 12 | Recipients born on the 1st through 10th of any month |
| August 19 | Recipients born on the 11th through 20th of any month |
| August 26 | Recipients born on the 21st through 31st of any month |
2026 COLA: Your Payment Is Higher This Year
Thanks to the 2.8% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) that took effect in January 2026, the average Social Security retirement benefit increased by approximately $56 per month — bringing the average monthly payment from $2,015 to $2,071. The SSA’s COLA page details how the adjustment is calculated using the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners.
Direct Deposit Tip
If you haven’t already, enrol in direct deposit via my Social Security to receive your payment on the scheduled date without mail delays. Direct deposit is the fastest, most secure way to receive benefits.
What If Your Payment Is Late?
If your payment hasn’t arrived within three business days of your scheduled date, contact the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778). Do not contact the SSA before the three-day window — processing times vary by bank.
