Social Security payments are typically paid out starting on the 2nd Wednesday of the month. The remaining two payments will be paid out on the following two Wednesdays of the month. Which week you receive your payment depends on your birthdate. There is one big exception, which I'll cover below.

A 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment increase will mean an extra $50 a month for most Social Security and SSI recipients.

The date you receive your Social Security benefits depends on your birthday and the exact benefit type you're receiving.  December is a little different since January 1st is a holiday. Be sure to check the updated payment dates below.

And while it can be challenging to find time for number crunching when you're busy making holiday travel plans and wrapping gifts, it's an important thing to do nonetheless. If you're on Social Security,