This month’s Social Security payments are on their way via direct deposit, but those expecting a check in the mail should expect it to arrive later. Regardless of which method you select for your monthly benefit, your check may be delayed on occasion. The following factors could explain why your check is late.
A Change in Your Banking Details
If you changed your bank account information, it is possible that your Social Security check will be delayed. To avoid future problems, you must notify the Social Security Administration (SSA), usually through your local Social Security office, of the change.
Regardless of which method you select for your monthly benefit, your check may be delayed on occasion.(Photo: tododisca.com)
You’ve Changed Your Address
The same rule applies to address changes as it does to changes in bank account information. If you have not notified the Social Security Administration or your local field office of the change, you may face a payment delay. Even if you have direct deposit set up, a mismatch in information could cause a problem.
Field Office Delays
One of the most common causes of payment delays is when the Social Security office in charge of processing your payments encounters a hiccup or slowdown in their processes. Pandemic-related staff shortages and holiday staff shortages are examples of events that cause such hiccups in payment processing. If the office that processes your payments falls behind schedule, your check will most likely be late.
What Should You Do If Your Social Security Check Is Late?
If your Social Security payment is late, the first thing you should do is wait at least three business days. Because the SSA generally pays on time, it’s best to simply wait and see if it arrives soon.
If you suspect a late payment is the result of a change in your personal banking information, an address change, or any other substantive reason, contact your local Social Security office or the Social Security Administration office. The SSA can be reached by phone at 1-800-772-1213 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. until 7 p.m. Deaf or hard of hearing people can call the SSA’s TTY line at 1-800-325-0778.
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