Social Security's Economic Stimulus One-Time Payments Information Page

Information from the Social Security Administration

President Obama recently signed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. This act provides for the one-time payment of $250 to individuals who get Supplemental Security Income or Social Security benefits.

We expect everyone who is entitled to a payment to receive it by late May 2009. No action is required on your part.   

We are currently working on the details regarding how we will issue over 60 million one-time payments to our beneficiaries.  

When more information becomes available, we will promptly post it on our website. Please check back regularly. Thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

QUESTION: Who will receive a one-time economic stimulus payment from Social Security?

ANSWER: Nearly 55 million Social Security and SSI beneficiaries will receive one-time payments of $250 each.

QUESTION: When can I expect to receive my payment?

ANSWER: We plan to pay all eligible Social Security and SSI beneficiaries by late May 2009, so you should expect to receive your payment by no later than the first week of June 2009. The one-time payment will be a separate payment, which will not be included in your regular monthly benefit payment.

QUESTION: How will I receive my one-time payment?

ANSWER: We will deliver your payment in the same way we currently deliver your Social Security or SSI benefit. If we deliver your monthly benefit by check, we will deliver your one-time payment by check. If you receive a monthly direct deposit or Direct Express debit card payment, that is how you will receive your one-time payment.

QUESTION: Can an individual receive more than one payment?

ANSWER: No, individuals may receive only one $250 one-time payment, regardless of how many types of benefits they receive. An individual receiving Social Security and SSI, or an individual receiving Social Security and VA or Railroad Retirement benefits, will be entitled to only one payment.

QUESTION: Are beneficiaries from other federal programs eligible for this one-time payment?

ANSWER: Yes, individuals receiving benefits from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or Railroad Retirement Board may be eligible for these one-time payments.