As the federal government entered a shutdown on November 1, 2025, many Americans voiced concern about their monthly Social Security benefits. However, the Social Security Administration (SSA) has confirmed that all retirement, disability, survivor, and SSI payments will continue without delay throughout November.
Why Social Security Payments Are Not Delayed
Social Security benefits are not funded by the annual federal budget, which is currently stalled in Congress. Instead, they are financed through payroll taxes collected under federal law and directed into the Social Security Trust Funds. Because of this, payments are legally protected from shutdown impacts, unlike many other government programs.
The SSA issued a public notice reaffirming that scheduled payments will “continue with no change in payment dates” during the shutdown.
What Led to the Government Shutdown
The shutdown stems from a Congressional disagreement over healthcare spending in the new budget year. When lawmakers failed to approve new funding, several federal agencies reliant on yearly appropriations reduced or suspended operations.
However, mandatory spending programs – including Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid – continue to operate because they are permanently authorized under federal law.
What Services Are Still Running at Social Security Offices
Even though payments are secure, the SSA has temporarily reduced staffing. Field offices remain open but focus on essential needs such as:
- Issuing scheduled payments
- Processing retirement, disability, and survivor claims
- Replacing lost or stolen Social Security cards
- Updating direct deposit details
Services temporarily slowed or limited include:
- Non-urgent appointment scheduling
- Some appeals and hearings
- Non-essential verification letters
SSA encourages individuals to manage their benefits through mySocialSecurity at: https://www.ssa.gov/myaccount
November 2025 Social Security Payment Dates
Payments will follow the standard Wednesday rotational schedule:
| Birth Date Range | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| 1–10 | Wednesday, Nov. 12 |
| 11–20 | Wednesday, Nov. 19 |
| 21–31 | Wednesday, Nov. 26 |
| Program | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| SSI (Supplemental Security Income) | Friday, Nov. 1 |
Direct deposits typically arrive by morning on payment day. Paper checks may take several days longer depending on postal service availability.
Other Federal Programs During the Shutdown
| Program | Status |
|---|---|
| Social Security | Unaffected |
| Medicare & Medicaid | Unaffected |
| Veterans’ Benefits | Unaffected (funded in advance) |
| SNAP / WIC | Temporarily funded; may face delays if shutdown continues |
How to Prepare During the Shutdown
- Keep your address and banking info updated in your SSA account
- Use online tools instead of visiting local offices
- Be alert for scams — the SSA will not call or text requesting money or personal data
