7 months ago
Social Security Payments on January 21
On January 21, 2026, many Americans will receive their Social Security payments.
These payments are for people who are retired, have disabilities, or are survivors of workers.
The date you get paid depends on your birthday.
If your birthday is between the 11th and 20th of any month, you will get your payment on January 21.
The average payment for a retiree is about $2,071, and for a retired couple, it is about $3,208.
The payments also include a 2.8% increase to help with the cost of living.
If you are still working and have not reached full retirement age, there are limits on how much you can earn without affecting your benefits.
Social Security payments will be distributed on January 21, 2026, for beneficiaries with birthdays between the 11th and 20th of any month.
The payment includes benefits for retired workers, SSDI recipients, and survivors.
The average monthly benefit for a retiree is expected to be around $2,071, while a retired couple can expect a combined average of $3,208.
A 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment has been applied to most Social Security benefits for 2026.
Earnings limits for beneficiaries who continue to work have been updated, with specific thresholds for those under and reaching full retirement age in 2026.
- Who
- Millions of Americans receiving Social Security benefits
- What
- Social Security payments for retirement, disability, and survivor benefits
- Where
- United States
- When
- January 21, 2026
- Why
- Part of the regular benefit distribution schedule set by the SSA
Key facts
- Payment Date
- January 21, 2026
- Beneficiaries
- Retired workers, SSDI recipients, survivors
- Determining Factor
- Birthdays between 11th and 20th of any month
- Average Monthly Benefit (Retiree)
- $2,071
- Average Monthly Benefit (Retired Couple)
- $3,208
- Cost-of-Living Adjustment (2026)
- 2.8%
- Earnings Limit (Under Full Retirement Age)
- $24,480
- Earnings Limit (Reaching Full Retirement Age in 2026)
- $65,160
- Maximum Earnings Subject to Social Security Tax
- $184,500
Sources
Related news
Treasury Turnover Raises Questions About Trump Tax Agenda
Social Security COLA 2027: Analyst Estimate Drops, Stays Above Average
Average $2,084 Social Security payment: who gets paid, 2027 outlook
US Court Blocks Trump's Voter Citizenship List
