Official February 2026 Social Security Payment: February 2026 brings important payment date adjustments for Social Security and SSI beneficiaries. Knowing the exact schedule helps recipients plan their monthly budgets without confusion. The Social Security Administration follows a structured calendar based on benefit type and birth date.
This guide explains all February 2026 Social Security and SSI payment dates, including early deposits and special rules. It also highlights the 2.8 percent COLA increase for 2026 and outlines how payment timing differs for various beneficiary groups.
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February 2026 SSI Payment Date Changes
Supplemental Security Income payments are normally issued on the first day of each month. However, when the first falls on a weekend or federal holiday, the payment is sent on the previous business day.
In February 2026, SSI recipients will receive their payment on January 30, 2026. Since February 1 falls on a Sunday, the Social Security Administration moves the payment earlier. There will be no additional SSI payment later in February.
Social Security Retirement and SSDI Payment Schedule for February 2026
Most Social Security retirement, SSDI, and survivor beneficiaries receive payments based on their birth date. This system applies to people who started receiving benefits after May 1997.
Beneficiaries born between the first and tenth will receive payment on February 11, 2026. Those born between the eleventh and twentieth will be paid on February 18, 2026. Individuals born between the twenty first and thirty first will receive payment on February 25, 2026.
Official February 2026 Social Security Payment Overview
| Benefit Type | Payment Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| SSI | January 30, 2026 | Early payment because February 1 is Sunday |
| Social Security pre-May 1997 | February 3, 2026 | Traditional early-month payment |
| Social Security Birth Date 1–10 | February 11, 2026 | Second Wednesday of month |
| Social Security Birth Date 11–20 | February 18, 2026 | Third Wednesday of month |
| Social Security Birth Date 21–31 | February 25, 2026 | Fourth Wednesday of month |
| 2026 COLA Increase | 2.8 percent | Applied to all monthly benefits |
Special Rules for Pre May 1997 Beneficiaries
Individuals who began receiving Social Security benefits before May 1997 follow a different schedule. These beneficiaries are usually paid on the third day of each month.
For February 2026, these recipients will receive their payment on February 3, 2026. This early month schedule remains consistent unless the date falls on a weekend or holiday.
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Dual SSI and Social Security Payment Timing
Some beneficiaries receive both SSI and Social Security benefits. These dual recipients follow two separate payment schedules each month.
In February 2026, SSI will be paid on January 30, 2026. Social Security benefits for these individuals will arrive on February 3, 2026, according to the standard early month rule.
2026 Cost of Living Adjustment Impact on Benefits
All Social Security and SSI payments in 2026 include a 2.8 percent Cost of Living Adjustment. This increase helps beneficiaries keep up with inflation and rising expenses.
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The COLA adjustment applies automatically to monthly payments. Beneficiaries do not need to take any action to receive the updated amount in February 2026 and beyond.
How Birth Dates Determine Social Security Payments
The Social Security Administration distributes payments across three Wednesdays each month. This system helps manage payment processing efficiently.
If your birthday falls between the first and tenth, you are paid on the second Wednesday. Birthdays between the eleventh and twentieth are paid on the third Wednesday. Those born later in the month receive payment on the fourth Wednesday.
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Why SSI Payments Sometimes Arrive Early
SSI payments are scheduled for the first day of each month. However, adjustments are made when that date falls on a weekend or federal holiday.
When this happens, the payment is issued on the last business day before the first. In February 2026, this rule results in an early payment on January 30.
What Beneficiaries Should Expect in February 2026
Most beneficiaries will receive only one payment in February according to their assigned schedule. SSI recipients should remember that their February benefit arrives at the end of January.
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There will be no double payments during February. The early SSI deposit simply replaces the regular first of the month payment and ensures uninterrupted support.
How to Confirm Your Exact Social Security Payment Date
Beneficiaries can verify their payment schedule through their official Social Security account. Payment dates are also listed in annual SSA payment calendars.
If there is ever a delay, recipients should wait at least three mailing days before contacting the agency. Direct deposit users typically receive funds on the scheduled payment date without delay.
Also Read: Is Retirement At 67 Still Possible? Understanding Social Security Changes And Planning For 2026
Dr Linda Steele is a Senior Lecturer at the Faculty of Law, University of Technology Sydney, and a member of the Law Health Justice Research Centre. She is also a Visiting Senior Fellow at the Faculty of Law, Humanities and the Arts, University of Wollongong.