Social Security payments — final November wave arrives Wednesday for 70 million beneficiaries with direct deposit only ahead of 2026 COLA boost next month

Social Security payments hit this week, and the timing is critical. The final November wave arrives Wednesday, Nov. 26 for beneficiaries born between the 21st and 31st. Direct deposit only. No paper checks. Roughly 70 million Americans rely on this income, and many are budgeting for the holidays around it. If the payment doesnt show, wait three business days before contacting SSA. Benefit amounts range from $2,831 at age 62 to $5,108 at age 70, with the average retiree receiving $2,008.31. A 2.8% COLA boost begins January 2026, adding about $56 extra per month automatically.