Rumors about $697 direct deposit checks from the Social Security Administration (SSA) have surfaced, but these claims have not been officially confirmed. These checks are intended to assist citizens facing financial difficulties, particularly those impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and rising inflation. Payments are scheduled for eligible individuals on specific dates in September 2024, based on their birthdates, with retirees receiving their benefits in staggered payments throughout the month. Notably, those who began receiving benefits before May 1997 will be paid on September 1 and 3, along with Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients. Individuals must meet specific eligibility criteria, including residency and citizenship, to qualify for the payments. The maximum SSI benefit for 2024 is set at $914 per month for individuals, adjusted based on income and living arrangements.