Millions of Social Security recipients in California will receive their January 2026 payments on the same schedule used nationwide, according to the Social Security Administration. Payment dates aren’t determined by state, but by when you began receiving benefits and your birth date.
Because of the way the calendar falls this year — including the New Year’s Day holiday — some beneficiaries will see their payments arrive earlier than usual.
January 2026 Social Security Payment Dates
Retirement, disability (SSDI), and survivor benefits
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Jan. 2, 2026: Beneficiaries who began receiving Social Security before May 1997, and those who receive both Social Security and SSI.
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Jan. 14, 2026: Birthdays on the 1st–10th of the month.
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Jan. 21, 2026: Birthdays on the 11th–20th of the month.
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Jan. 28, 2026: Birthdays on the 21st–31st of the month.
SSI Payments Arrive Early
For recipients of Supplemental Security Income (SSI), January’s payment will arrive before the month even begins:
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Dec. 31, 2025: January 2026 SSI payment, issued early because Jan. 1 is a federal holiday.
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Jan. 30, 2026: February SSI payment, sent early since Feb. 1 falls on a Sunday.
What to Know
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Social Security payment dates are the same in every state, including California.
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Most recipients receive benefits through direct deposit, which typically posts early on the scheduled date.
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If your payment doesn’t arrive on time, the SSA recommends waiting three business days before contacting the agency.
How to Check Your Payment Date
You can confirm your exact payment date by logging into your my Social Security account or reviewing official notices from the Social Security Administration.
With the start of the new year often bringing higher expenses, knowing when your January Social Security payment will arrive can help Californians plan ahead.
What to do if your Social Security payment does not arrive
- If the deposit does not appear on the scheduled date, the SSA recommends following these steps:
- Contact your bank or financial institution first, as there may be a delay in posting the payment.
- If the problem persists, contact the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) or visit your local office.
- The agency itself states: “We will review the case and, if the payment is due, we will replace it“.
