There Is NO $600 Social Security Check Coming In 2024
I’ve had several readers reach out to me lately regarding a Social Security matter. One, in particular, mentioned receiving an email back in April indicating a $600 increase in his Social Security check but has not yet received the increase or any details on when it will occur in June. The reader then asked for guidance on whom to contact at Social Security to address his question.
Is There a COLA Increase in June 2024?
Great question. On June 14, Social Security’s Office of the Inspector General cautioned: “Be keenly aware of the attempts from persons seeking to gain your personal information for you to receive a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) from SSA.”
The truth?
On Friday, June 14, 2024, Social Security released this statement on SSA.gov: “ALERT: Reports of a $600 payment increase in June are FALSE: NO COLA increase will occur UNTIL January 2025.”
There was already a COLA increase in January. Here’s what to know:
- COLA stands for Cost-of-Living Adjustment. It’s like a raise the government gives to people who get Social Security or SSI (Supplemental Security Income) benefits to help them keep buying what they need, even if prices go up a little.
- Social Security and SSI benefits went up 3.2% for more than 71 million people in the US in January 2024.
- SSI benefits go to people with disabilities or low income.
- Social Security benefits go to retired workers.
- Some people get both benefits.
The new COLA for 2025 will be announced in October and it will begin in January 2025.
Inspector General Gail S. Ennis stated in the scam alert, “The annual cost-of-living increases issued by SSA are ALWAYS automatic. No additional information is required for you to receive the legitimate COLA increase.” Ennis advised recipients of the scam-related attempts to steal their identity, or their money, or both, to safeguard their personal information.
Social Security Commissioner Martin O’Malley advised America to “please be aware and don’t fall for this stunt.” O’Malley advised that SSA sends notices directly to beneficiaries in early December regarding the SSA amount for the upcoming January payments. Visit SSA.gov/myaccount to view your COLA online once the new Social Security adjustment is announced.
Here are some easy-to-follow tips to protect yourself from Social Security, Medicare, and IRS fraud:
- Phone Calls: Have a safety script by your phone for scam calls. It should say something like, “I don’t give out personal information over the phone. Please remove me from your list.” (Get help writing your script from a trusted friend or family member.) Stick to the script no matter what the caller says.
- Emails: Don’t open or reply to suspicious emails. Just delete them. If you’re unsure about an email’s legitimacy, ask a trusted friend or family member to help you check it.
- Never Share Personal Information: This includes your Social Security number, Medicare number, and any other sensitive information. Don’t give it out to strangers over the phone, at the door, or in emails. Remember, “Stranger Danger” applies to adults too!
- Beware of “Free” Offers: If someone offers you something “free” in exchange for your Medicare number, it’s a scam! Scammers can use your number to get reimbursed for fake services.
- Spread the Word: Social Security, Medicare, and IRS fraud are on the rise. Share these tips with your friends and family to help everyone stay safe. Remember, we can all work together to stop these scammers who are trying to steal your money.
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Originally published June 19, 2024
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