Social Security payment: If you live in Texas and receive Social Security money, knowing your January 2026 payment date can help you plan your month better. This includes paying bills, buying food, and handling medical needs. The Social Security Administration decides payment dates mostly by your birthday. January has a small change this year because of the New Year holiday.
Most people who get Social Security retirement, disability, or survivor benefits receive their money on a Wednesday. The exact Wednesday depends on the day you were born. This system works the same way in Texas as it does in other states. People born earlier in the month get paid earlier. People born later get paid later.
Social Security Payments to Rise in January 2026: What to Expect
For January 2026, the most common payment days for Texans will be Wednesday, January 14, January 21, and January 28. These are the dates most people should watch for their deposits.
For January 2026, the dates are as follows:
- January 2, 2026 (Friday) – For people who started receiving benefits before May 1997 or receive both Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
- January 14, 2026 (Wednesday) – For beneficiaries born on the 1st through 10th of the month.
- January 21, 2026 (Wednesday) – For those born between the 11th and 20th.
- January 28, 2026 (Wednesday) – For individuals born on the 21st through 31st.
Holiday changes
People who receive Supplemental Security Income follow a different rule. SSI payments usually arrive on the first day of the month. But January 1, 2026 falls on a holiday. Because of this, the government sent SSI payments early. These payments went out on December 31, 2025.
Some people receive both SSI and regular Social Security. Others started receiving benefits before May 1997. These groups do not follow the Wednesday system. They usually receive their payment at the start of the month. In January 2026, these people received their money on January 2 instead of a Wednesday.
The SSA follows a clear rule when holidays or weekends affect payments. If a payment date falls on a holiday or weekend, the SSA sends the money on the business day before.
Social Security Updates 2026: COLA, Medicare, and Tax Changes
COLA Increase
The SSA added a 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment to Social Security and SSI payments. Because of this increase, many people will see a small rise in their monthly payment. On average, this increase equals about $56 more per month compared to 2025.
Banks can also affect when you see your money. Some banks show the deposit one or two days early. Other banks wait until the exact payment date. Because of this, the day your money appears in your account may not match the SSA calendar exactly.
If your payment does not show up on time, the SSA gives simple advice. “If you don’t see your payment on the expected date, the SSA recommends waiting at least three business days before contacting your bank or the SSA directly.”
