Early next week, the United States Social Security Administration (SSA) will begin distributing August 2026 benefits to select recipients. On Monday, August 3, two specific groups of beneficiaries are scheduled to receive their Social Security payments.
Among those set to be paid are individuals who have been long-term recipients, specifically those who initiated their Social Security benefits prior to May 1997. This group represents some of the earliest beneficiaries still drawing monthly payments under the program.
Recipients receiving payments on August 3
In addition to long-term recipients, the SSA will also issue payments to beneficiaries who receive both Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSI is a means-tested program designed to support low-income individuals who are aged 65 or older or have disabilities. Unlike Social Security, SSI eligibility is based on financial need rather than employment history.
While Social Security payments for these dual recipients will be disbursed on August 3, SSI benefits for August have already been distributed early, on Friday, July 31. Normally paid on the first day of each month, this early payment is due to August 1 falling on a weekend. The average monthly SSI payment is approximately $738.10.
For the broader Social Security program, the average monthly payments differ based on the type of benefit. Retirement benefits average $2,029.92 per month, disability benefits come to about $1,496.16, and survivor benefits average $1,631.39.