The Social Security Administration (SSA) is completing its February 2026 payment cycle this week. After successful deposits on February 11 and 18, the final group of retirees and disability recipients is now in the queue. Most beneficiaries in this final wave will see their 2.8% COLA-boosted checks on Wednesday, February 25, 2026.
Who Gets Paid on February 25?
The SSA uses your birth date to determine when your money arrives. You are eligible for the February 25 deposit if you meet these two criteria:
- Your birthday falls between the 21st and 31st of any month.
- You began receiving benefits after May 1997.
If you fall into this group, your bank should show a “Pending” deposit by Tuesday evening. This payment includes the full 2026 Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA), which has raised the average retiree check to approximately $2,071.
The SSI “Double Payment” in February 2026
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients should prepare for a unique calendar shift this month. While SSI payments usually arrive on the 1st of each month, March 1, 2026, falls on a Sunday.+1
Because the SSA does not issue payments on weekends, the March SSI payment will arrive early on Friday, February 27, 2026. This creates a “double payment” month for SSI filers, as they already received their February funds at the start of the month. Note that this is not a bonus check; it is simply your March payment arriving 48 hours early.
New 2026 Payment Figures
Thanks to the 2.8% COLA increase, monthly maximums have reached new record highs for the 2026 season:
- Individuals (SSI): $994 per month.
- Couples (SSI): $1,491 per month.
- Max Retiree (Age 70): Up to $5,181 per month.
What to do if your check is late
If your payment does not arrive by the end of your scheduled Wednesday, the SSA recommends waiting three additional mailing days before taking action. Many banks process these deposits throughout the day, so your funds may appear later than usual. If the money is still missing by the following Monday, contact your local Social Security office or call 1-800-772-1213.
Sources & Editorial Note
Data Source: Official Social Security Administration (SSA) 2026 Payment Calendar.
Editorial Note: The Echo Wire is an independent newsroom not affiliated with the SSA. We verify all payment dates against official federal banking holiday schedules. Always confirm specific amounts through your “my Social Security” account.
