India, Dec. 27 -- As the new year approaches, millions of Americans who rely on Social Security benefits are watching their calendars closely. While Social Security Administration (SSA) payments are issued every month, the exact payment date is not the same for everyone. It typically depends on the beneficiary's birthdate. With January payment dates now set, recipients can plan and better understand when to expect their first Social Security check of the year.

Payment schedules from the Social Security Administration vary based on the benefit a person receives and when they first filed their claim. Retirement, disability, and survivor beneficiaries who applied after May 1, 1997, are paid on a staggered schedule. Deposits are made on eith...