Some Social Security beneficiaries to receive payments early for February and March

Social Security beneficiaries can expect payments to arrive on time and on the usual schedule in February 2026, according to the Social Security Administration (SSA).

Most Social Security retirement and disability benefits are distributed on Wednesdays, with payment dates determined by a recipient’s birth date. There are no major disruptions or holiday-related delays affecting February payments.

In addition, monthly checks remain slightly higher in 2026, following a 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) that took effect in January.

February 2026 Social Security Payment Schedule

For beneficiaries who began receiving Social Security after May 1997, payments are issued based on the day of the month they were born.

📅 Social Security Retirement Benefits – February 2026

👉 Important: Social Security recipients who started receiving benefits before May 1997 are paid on the 3rd of each month. For February 2026, that payment was issued on Feb. 3.

Social Security Checks Are Larger in 2026

Thanks to the 2.8% COLA increase, Social Security payments are modestly higher this year.

• Average monthly increase: about $56

• Effective date: January 2026

• Purpose: To help retirees and beneficiaries keep up with inflation, especially rising costs for housing, food, and healthcare

The SSA adjusts benefits annually based on inflation data from the Consumer Price Index.

SSI Payment Schedule: February 2026 and Beyond

Recipients of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are typically paid on the first business day of the month. When that day falls on a weekend or federal holiday, payments are sent earlier.

Because Feb. 1, 2026 falls on a Sunday, SSI payments for February were issued at the end of January.

📅 SSI Payment Dates for 2026

What Is Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program that provides monthly payments to individuals with limited income and resources who are:

• 65 or older

• Blind

• Disabled, including eligible children with qualifying disabilities

Key SSI Eligibility Details

• SSI is needs-based, not based on work history

• Most adults who qualify have monthly wages below $2,019

• Benefit amounts vary depending on income, living situation, and state supplements

How to Apply for SSI

If you believe you may qualify for SSI, you can apply in several ways:

• Online: through the SSA website

• In person: at your local Social Security office

• By phone: 1-800-772-1213

  • TTY: 1-800-325-0778

  • Available Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time

Bottom Line

• ✅ February 2026 Social Security payments are on schedule

• 💰 Checks remain higher due to the 2.8% COLA

• 📆 SSI recipients received February payments early due to the weekend

• 🔍 The full 2026 SSA payment calendar is available online for budgeting and planning