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This Month: Money, Benefits and Freebies, November 2026
Bookmark this page. Each month we gather the dates that touch your money: check dates, enrollment deadlines, heating help, settlement deadlines, and free meals and deals from companies. We are not a government agency. Every item links to the official page so you can check it yourself.
Key dates and deadlines
Official dates from government sites, soonest first.
Official date Now through Dec 31
Social Security and SSI going up 3.6% for 2027
SSA announced a 3.6% cost-of-living adjustment. SSI increases start with the Dec 31, 2026 payment; Social Security increases start in January 2027. SSA says retirement benefits rise "by $75 per month" on average.
- Who
- Social Security beneficiaries and SSI recipients nationwide
- Good to know
- Automatic; no application. Exact new amount appears on each person's COLA notice.
Official date Now through Dec 7
Medicare Open Enrollment runs Oct 15 to Dec 7
Join, drop or switch a Medicare Advantage or Part D drug plan, or move between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage. CMS projects the average stand-alone Part D premium at $36 a month in 2027.
- Who
- People with Medicare
- Good to know
- Plan must get your request by Dec 7; changes take effect Jan 1, 2027. People keeping current coverage generally do not need to re-enroll.
Read our guideMedicare.gov: Joining a plan; CMS press release (Sept 28, 2026) ↗
Official date Now through Dec 31
Lifeline: up to $9.25 a month off phone or internet
The FCC says Lifeline "provides up to a $9.25 monthly discount on service" for eligible low-income subscribers, and up to $34.25 a month on Tribal lands.
- Who
- Low-income households nationwide; enhanced benefit on Tribal lands
- Good to know
- A government program (FCC). Income at or below 135% of federal poverty guidelines, or in SNAP, Medicaid, Federal Public Housing Assistance, SSI, Veterans Pension or certain Tribal programs; one per household; eligibility checked by database or documents dated within the past 12 months; recertify yearly; Texas and Oregon use state process
Read our guideFCC: Lifeline Support for Affordable Communications (updated Mar 3, 2026) ↗
Official date Now through Dec 31
Museums for All: $5-or-less museum entry with a SNAP EBT card
Museums for All says: "Admission is $5 or less for up to four people per EBT card." No sign-up on its website is needed.
- Who
- SNAP EBT cardholders at participating U.S. museums (a program of the federal Institute of Museum and Library Services, run by the Association of Children's Museums; participating museums only).
- Good to know
- Show your SNAP EBT card and a photo ID; up to four people per card; the card is only for ID, so pay entry another way; WIC accepted only at some museums; some museums may ask you to book ahead
Official date Nov 1 – Nov 30
No SSI payment in November (it came early on Oct 30)
Nov 1 is a Sunday, so SSA's 2026 payment calendar shows November's SSI paid Friday, Oct 30. There is no SSI date in November. The next SSI payment is Tuesday, Dec 1.
- Who
- SSI recipients
- Good to know
- None stated
Read our guideSSA Pub. 05-10031: Schedule of Social Security Benefit Payments 2026 ↗
Official date Nov 1 – Dec 31
Check if you can get VA health care
VA.gov explains who "may be eligible" for VA health care, including service-length rules, exceptions, and other paths such as toxic exposure or income, and links to the online application.
- Who
- Veterans who served in the active military, naval or air service
- Good to know
- Generally no dishonorable discharge; most who enlisted after Sept. 7, 1980 need 24 continuous months or the full call-up period (exceptions apply); some qualify through combat, toxic exposure or income. Apply online with VA Form 10-10EZ.
VA.gov: Eligibility for VA health care (updated Apr 3, 2026) ↗
Official date Nov 1 – Dec 31
Free lifetime national parks pass for veterans and Gold Star families
NPS offers a free Military Lifetime Pass to "Gold Star Family members and veterans" and a free Military Annual Pass to current military and dependents.
- Who
- Veterans (including Guard and Reserve) and Gold Star Family members; current military and dependents get a free annual pass
- Good to know
- For U.S. citizens and residents. Veterans show a DoD ID, VHIC, VA Veteran ID Card, or state ID with veteran designation; Gold Star Families show a Gold Star Voucher. Free in person or as a digital pass on Recreation.gov; mailed cards cost extra.
Read our guideNPS.gov: Free access for veterans and Gold Star Families ↗
Official date Nov 1 – Dec 31
VA DIC: benefits for some veterans' survivors
VA's Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) is a benefit for eligible surviving spouses, children and parents. VA.gov explains who may qualify and which form to file; filing an intent to file can help preserve an earlier start date.
- Who
- Surviving spouses, children and parents of service members who died in the line of duty or veterans who died from a service-related condition; some survivors of veterans rated totally disabled for a required period also qualify
- Good to know
- Spouses generally must have lived with the veteran until death and meet a marriage rule; children must be unmarried and under 18 (or under 23 in school); parents must be under an income limit. Forms 21P-534EZ, 21P-534a or 21P-535.
Read our guideVA.gov: DIC for survivors (updated Sep 25, 2026) ↗
Official date Nov 1 – Dec 31
VA Veterans Pension for wartime veterans 65+ or disabled
VA's Veterans Pension is a monthly payment for some wartime veterans with low income who are 65 or older or have a disability. VA.gov lists the service, income and net worth rules.
- Who
- Wartime veterans with limited income and net worth
- Good to know
- Must meet wartime service rules, not have a dishonorable discharge, meet income and net worth limits set by Congress, and be 65+, permanently and totally disabled, in a nursing home, or receiving SSDI or SSI.
Read our guideVA.gov: Veterans Pension eligibility (updated Sep 3, 2026) ↗
Official date Nov 1 – Jan 15, 2027
HealthCare.gov Open Enrollment: Nov 1 to Jan 15
Open Enrollment for 2027 Marketplace plans starts Nov 1 and ends Jan 15. Medicaid and CHIP sign-ups are open any time.
- Who
- HealthCare.gov states (state-run marketplaces set their own dates)
- Good to know
- Sign up by Dec 15 for coverage starting Jan 1 (and pay the first premium); Dec 16-Jan 15 sign-ups start Feb 1.
Read our guideHealthCare.gov: Dates and deadlines; CMS newsroom (Oct 30, 2026) ↗
Official date Nov 1 – Aug 13, 2027
Nov 1: Illinois heating help (LIHEAP) opens to all eligible homes
Illinois DCEO: "Beginning November 1, 2026 — All other income eligible households can start applying for LIHEAP assistance." Apply at helpillinoisfamilies.com or call 1-833-711-0374.
- Who
- Illinois income-eligible households
- Good to know
- Income limits apply; runs to Aug 13, 2027 "or until funding is exhausted." Priority groups could apply from Oct 1.
Official date Nov 3 – Nov 25
November Social Security dates: Nov 3, 10, 18, 25
SSA's calendar shows: Nov 3 (paid-on-the-3rd group), Tue Nov 10 (birthdays 1st-10th), Nov 18 (11th-20th), Nov 25 (21st-31st). SSA says to allow three extra mailing days before contacting it.
- Who
- Social Security beneficiaries
- Good to know
- Your day depends on birth date; pre-May 1997 and SSI+Social Security recipients are paid on the 3rd.
Read our guideSSA Pub. 05-10031: Schedule of Social Security Benefit Payments 2026 ↗
Official date Tue, Nov 10
Social Security comes Tuesday, Nov 10 (Veterans Day is Nov 11)
The second-Wednesday payment would fall on Nov 11, Veterans Day, a federal holiday. SSA's 2026 calendar marks Tuesday, Nov 10 instead for people born on the 1st-10th.
- Who
- Social Security beneficiaries born on the 1st-10th of the month
- Good to know
- None stated
Read our guideSSA Pub. 05-10031: Schedule of Social Security Benefit Payments 2026 ↗
Official date Wed, Nov 11
National parks: free entrance on Veterans Day (Nov 11)
The National Park Service lists Nov. 11, Veterans Day, as a 2026 fee-free day: no entrance fee at parks that normally charge one.
- Who
- U.S. citizens and residents at National Park Service sites that charge entrance fees
- Good to know
- U.S. citizens and residents only; other fees such as timed entry or reservation fees may apply; nonresidents pay regular fees.
Official date Wed, Nov 11
Nov 11: Ohio winter shutoff protection begins
The LIHEAP Clearinghouse lists Ohio's seasonal protection dates as Nov 11 through Apr 15.
- Who
- Ohio utility customers
- Good to know
- Applies to regulated utilities; check with your utility or the state commission.
Read our guideLIHEAP Clearinghouse (HHS/ACF): Seasonal Termination Protection Regulations ↗
Official date Sun, Nov 15
Nov 15: winter shutoff protections start in 9 more states
The LIHEAP Clearinghouse lists seasonal disconnection protections starting Nov 15 in these states, ending between Mar 15 and Apr 15 depending on the state.
- Who
- DE, GA, ME, MA, NH, NJ, NM, UT, WA
- Good to know
- Often regulated utilities only; some states require a payment agreement, hardship status or a temperature trigger (GA).
Read our guideLIHEAP Clearinghouse (HHS/ACF): Seasonal Termination Protection Regulations ↗
Official date Nov 16 – Dec 12
USPS Operation Santa: letters posted for adoption Nov 16
USPS 2026 dates: adopter registration Nov 2; letter adoption begins Nov 16; last day to adopt Dec 12 (site closes 8 p.m. ET).
- Who
- Families in the continental U.S., Hawaii and Puerto Rico who mail letters to Santa; adopters in the same areas
- Good to know
- Letter must go to 123 Elf Road, North Pole, 88888 with postage and a return address; USPS says there is no guarantee a letter is posted or adopted.
Deadline Wed, Nov 18
Sign up for paperless by Nov 18 to see your COLA notice online
SSA says notices will be online in the my Social Security Message Center "in late November." People without an account must create one and enroll in paperless notices "by November 18" to see it online.
- Who
- Social Security beneficiaries who want their 2027 COLA notice online
- Good to know
- Need a personal my Social Security account and paperless notices set up by Nov 18. Others get the notice by mail in December.
Nothing open right now. We add new items as soon as they are confirmed.
Settlement deadlines this month
Claims that close this month. See every open settlement →
Freebies and company offers
From each company's own page. These are company offers, not government benefits.
Company freebie Wed, Nov 11
Bob Evans: free entrée from Veterans Day menu (Nov 11)
Bob Evans offers veterans and active-duty military a free meal from an 11-item Veterans Day menu, plus a thank-you offer for a free cup of sausage gravy and biscuits on a future visit.
- Who
- Veterans and active-duty military; Bob Evans restaurants
- Good to know
- Dine-in only, all day Nov. 11; one entrée from the 11-item Veterans Day menu; proof of service required (Uniformed Services ID, Retired ID, current LES, veterans organization card, photo in uniform, DD214, or citation/commendation).
Company offer, not a government benefit. Offers can change; check the company's page before you go.
Company offer Wed, Nov 11
Capriotti's: free small sub with purchase (Nov 11)
Capriotti's Oct. 29, 2026 release says veterans and active-duty military can get a "Free Small Sub with purchase" on Veterans Day, Nov. 11.
- Who
- Veterans and active-duty military; Capriotti's shops
- Good to know
- Purchase required (no minimum stated); show valid military ID in-shop; release does not list participating shops: call first.
Company offer, not a government benefit. Offers can change; check the company's page before you go.
Read our guideCapriotti's press release via PR Newswire (Oct 29, 2026) ↗
Company freebie Wed, Nov 11
Chili's: free meal from a Veterans Day menu (Nov 11)
Chili's says veterans and active military members "can get a free meal" on Nov. 11, choosing Chicken Crispers, Chicken Bacon Ranch Quesadillas, Oldtimer Burger with Cheese, or Soup and House Salad.
- Who
- Veterans and active military members; participating Chili's restaurants
- Good to know
- Dine-in only from a limited menu; participating restaurants; valid 11/11/2026 only; no substitutions; not combinable; drinks and tip not included. Page does not say what proof is accepted: call ahead.
Company offer, not a government benefit. Offers can change; check the company's page before you go.
Company freebie Wed, Nov 11
Golden Corral: free buffet and drink, 4 p.m. to close (Nov 11)
Golden Corral's Military Appreciation Night offers people who served a free "thank you" buffet and drink on Veterans Day evening.
- Who
- Anyone who served in the U.S. military (retirees, veterans, active duty, National Guard, Reserves); Golden Corral restaurants
- Good to know
- Nov. 11, 2026, 4 p.m. to close; no takeout; free for the person who served only, guests pay regular price; no rain checks. Page does not say what proof is accepted: call ahead.
Company offer, not a government benefit. Offers can change; check the company's page before you go.
Read our guideGolden Corral: Military Appreciation Night (2026) ↗
Company freebie Wed, Nov 11
Pilot and Flying J: free sandwich and drink in the Pilot app (Nov 11)
Pilot says verified veterans and active-duty service members can claim a "complimentary sandwich and coffee or fountain drink" in the Pilot app on Veterans Day.
- Who
- Veterans and active-duty service members; participating Pilot and Flying J locations
- Good to know
- Verify through ID.me; claim in the Pilot app on Nov. 11, 2026; participating locations only.
Company offer, not a government benefit. Offers can change; check the company's page before you go.
Company freebie Wed, Nov 11
Red Robin: free Tavern Burger and Bottomless Steak Fries (Nov 11)
Red Robin offers "one free Red's Big Tavern Burger" with Bottomless Steak Fries to veterans and active-duty military who dine in on Veterans Day.
- Who
- Veterans and active-duty military; participating Red Robin restaurants
- Good to know
- Dine-in only; participating restaurants; valid military ID or proof of service; 11/11/26 only; no purchase necessary; offer excludes modifications and other burger styles (substitutions, additions or premium sides cost extra); not valid with other offers or Red Robin Royalty rewards.
Company offer, not a government benefit. Offers can change; check the company's page before you go.
Company freebie Nov 11 – Nov 25
Freddy's: free combo meal card, use by Nov 25
Freddy's says veterans and active military who visit on Veterans Day can get a "FREE Freddy's Combo meal card" to use on a later visit through Nov. 25, 2026.
- Who
- Veterans and active military personnel; Freddy's restaurants
- Good to know
- Pick up the card in person on Nov. 11; no purchase necessary; redeem through Nov. 25, 2026. Page does not say what proof is accepted: call ahead.
Company offer, not a government benefit. Offers can change; check the company's page before you go.
Company freebie Nov 11 – Dec 4
Great Clips: free haircut or haircut card for veterans (Nov 11)
Great Clips says veterans and active military can get "a free haircut or a card to be used during a future visit" on Veterans Day. Other customers can pick up a card to give a veteran.
- Who
- Veterans and active military service members; Great Clips salons in the U.S.
- Good to know
- Visit a U.S. salon on Veterans Day for a haircut that day or a card for later; cards redeemable through Dec. 4, 2026. Release does not say what proof is accepted: call ahead.
Company offer, not a government benefit. Offers can change; check the company's page before you go.
Company freebie Now through Dec 25
Toys for Tots: request holiday toys through your local campaign
Toys for Tots says to request a toy, "complete the Toy Application for the Marine Toys for Tots nearest to you." Most local campaigns help children up to age 12.
- Who
- Families in need; most local campaigns serve children up to age 12
- Good to know
- Apply through your nearest local Marine Toys for Tots campaign (Request a Toy, then pick your city or county); each local campaign sets its own process and deadline, and some close in early November; a request is not a guarantee
Company offer, not a government benefit. Offers can change; check the company's page before you go.
Company offer Now through Dec 31
Access from AT&T: low-cost home internet for SNAP, SSI, Medicaid
AT&T says eligible households get "exclusive low-cost pricing" on home internet. It lists no single price; price and speed depend on your address.
- Who
- Homes where AT&T Fiber or AT&T Internet Air is available
- Good to know
- A company offer. Someone in the home is in a qualifying program, or income is below 200% of the federal poverty guideline; apply through AT&T's outside partner with proof (e.g., EBT card, Medicaid card, SSI letter); price depends on your address
Company offer, not a government benefit. Offers can change; check the company's page before you go.
Company offer Now through Dec 31
Amazon Prime Access: lower-price Prime for SNAP, Medicaid, SSI
Amazon says eligible government assistance recipients or income-verified customers "can access all of Prime for $14.99 $6.99/month" (regular price struck through), with a free 30-day trial. "Cancel anytime."
- Who
- U.S. Amazon customers in a listed help program, or with household income at or below 200% of the federal poverty guideline
- Good to know
- A company offer. Upload proof of a listed program (SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, SSDI, WIC, TANF and others) or pass an outside income check; payment method required; free 30-day trial only if you are eligible for one; billed monthly after the trial unless you cancel
Company offer, not a government benefit. Offers can change; check the company's page before you go.
Company freebie Now through Dec 31
Bath & Body Works: free birthday item (up to $9.95 value)
Bath & Body Works says members get a Birthday Reward valid 30 days, good for one item with a regular ticket price of $9.95 or less.
- Who
- My Bath & Body Works Rewards members
- Good to know
- Birth month and date must be in your Rewards profile; reward appears in the app Wallet or My Account on your birthday; valid 30 days; must identify yourself to redeem; item's regular ticket price must be $9.95 or less
Company offer, not a government benefit. Offers can change; check the company's page before you go.
Bath & Body Works Customer Care: Rewards and Birthday Reward ↗
Company freebie Now through Dec 31
Burger King Royal Perks: free item on your birthday
Burger King says Royal Perks members can choose a free Whopper Jr., Original Chicken Sandwich, Cheeseburger, 8pc Chicken Fries, soft serve or seasonal item on their birthday, plus double Crowns all month.
- Who
- Royal Perks members at participating U.S. Burger King restaurants
- Good to know
- Register your birthday in Royal Perks at least 7 days before your birthday; at least one eligible purchase in the 12 months before your birthday; free item is for the day of your actual birthday; birthday can be changed only once a year
Company offer, not a government benefit. Offers can change; check the company's page before you go.
Burger King Help Center: What is a Birthday Bonus? (updated Feb 12, 2026) ↗
Company freebie Now through Dec 31
Cracker Barrel Rewards: one free birthday dessert
Cracker Barrel's rewards terms list a Birthday Reward of "One (1) free dessert," redeemable in store, in the app or online within 45 days.
- Who
- Cracker Barrel Rewards members
- Good to know
- Add your birthdate before the first day of your birthday month; at least one qualifying purchase in the 12 months before your birthday; loads within 72 hours of the first day of your birthday month; redeem within 45 days; one per year; add-on items excluded
Company offer, not a government benefit. Offers can change; check the company's page before you go.
Company freebie Now through Dec 31
IHOP Rewards: 5 PanCoins as a birthday gift
IHOP's rewards terms say: "On your birthday, you will receive five (5) PanCoins as a 'Birthday Gift.'" PanCoins are IHOP's points, used for free menu items.
- Who
- IHOP International Bank of Pancakes rewards members (U.S., 13+)
- Good to know
- Register for an IHOP rewards account at least 7 days before your birthday and include your birthday in your account
Company offer, not a government benefit. Offers can change; check the company's page before you go.
IHOP Rewards Terms (effective Mar 10, 2025; current version) ↗
Company freebie Now through Dec 31
My Chili's Rewards: free birthday dessert with $5 spend
Chili's rewards terms say members get "a free dessert on your birthday," with at least $5 spent on food or drinks. It expires 10 days after it is issued.
- Who
- My Chili's Rewards members at participating U.S. Chili's
- Good to know
- Free rewards membership (18+); must spend at least $5.00 on food or beverage; expires 10 days after it is issued; cannot be used in the same visit it was issued
Company offer, not a government benefit. Offers can change; check the company's page before you go.
Company freebie Now through Dec 31
MyPanera: free bakery treat on your birthday
Panera's terms say MyPanera members who add their birthday get one free bakery item, valid 7 days. MyPanera+ members get a free You Pick Two (up to $18).
- Who
- MyPanera members at participating U.S. Panera bakery-cafes
- Good to know
- Birthday (month, day) must be in your MyPanera account; no purchase required for the bakery treat; select the reward when ordering; valid 7 days from when it loads; MyPanera+ members get a You Pick Two instead (up to $18)
Company offer, not a government benefit. Offers can change; check the company's page before you go.
Panera Terms of Use, MyPanera Program (last updated Oct 22, 2026) ↗
Company offer Nov 1 – Dec 31
Pilot app: 10% off food and drinks for verified service members
Pilot says it offers savings "to verified service members and their families through the Pilot app, including 10% off food and beverages" year-round.
- Who
- Verified service members and their families; Pilot app users
- Good to know
- Pilot app and military verification required; Pilot calls it year-round savings.
Company offer, not a government benefit. Offers can change; check the company's page before you go.
Company freebie Now through Dec 31
Red Lobster rewards: free dessert or starter for your birthday
Red Lobster's rewards terms say members get "a special birthday Reward of choice of dessert or select starters." Birthday Rewards expire in 30 days.
- Who
- Red Lobster rewards program members
- Good to know
- Sign up at least 10 days before your birthday and include your birth date; reward expires in 30 days; terms say members "may be offered" a yearly birthday reward
Company offer, not a government benefit. Offers can change; check the company's page before you go.
Red Lobster Rewards Terms (updated effective Aug 19, 2026) ↗
Company offer Now through Dec 31
Red Robin: $7 off for a child's birthday (dine-in)
Red Robin's rewards terms say the Kids' Birthday Offer is "$7.00 discount off their check with a minimum accompanying $4.99 purchase" during the child's birthday month. Dine-in only.
- Who
- Red Robin Royalty members with a child 17 or under, at participating U.S. restaurants
- Good to know
- Add your child's birthday to your Royalty profile; activates on the first day of the child's birthday month; once per year; minimum $4.99 purchase; dine-in only and the child must be present
Company offer, not a government benefit. Offers can change; check the company's page before you go.
Company freebie Now through Dec 31
Sephora Beauty Insider: free birthday gift set
Sephora says Beauty Insiders get a "FREE Birthday Gift Set" any time during their birthday month. Spend $25+ to redeem online; while supplies last.
- Who
- Sephora Beauty Insider members (U.S.)
- Good to know
- Free Beauty Insider membership; redeem any time during your birthday month; online redemption needs a $25+ purchase; while supplies last; some gift choices are in-store only or VIB/Rouge only
Company offer, not a government benefit. Offers can change; check the company's page before you go.
Company offer Now through Dec 31
Spectrum Internet Assist: $25/mo, or $15/mo with SSI or school lunch
Spectrum says: "You may be eligible for Spectrum Internet Assist for $25/mo if you meet certain qualifications." A $15/mo rate is listed for SSI or school lunch. 50 Mbps.
- Who
- Qualified households in Spectrum service areas
- Good to know
- A company offer. Must meet Spectrum's program rules; the $15/mo rate needs the National School Lunch Program (or a CEP school) or SSI; gather documents and apply online; NY has extra criteria
Company offer, not a government benefit. Offers can change; check the company's page before you go.
Company freebie Now through Dec 31
Starbucks Rewards: free drink or food item on your birthday
Starbucks Rewards terms give members a Birthday Reward: one handcrafted drink, one food item, or one bottled drink. For Green members it is "valid only on that date."
- Who
- Starbucks Rewards members at participating U.S. stores
- Good to know
- Join Starbucks Rewards at least 7 days before your birthday; make at least one Star-earning purchase before your birthday each year; birthday must be in your account; Green members redeem on the birthday only (Gold 7 days, Reserve 30 days); excludes alcohol, multi-serve items, merchandise and packaged coffee
Company offer, not a government benefit. Offers can change; check the company's page before you go.
Company freebie Now through Dec 31
Ulta Beauty Rewards: choice of birthday gift plus 2X points
Ulta says Rewards members get a choice of birthday gift during their birthday month, plus 2X points on select purchases. Online, the gift applies "as free with a qualifying purchase"; gifts are limited "while quantities last."
- Who
- Ulta Beauty Rewards members (U.S.)
- Good to know
- Birthday must be in your member profile and you must be opted in to marketing messages before your birthday month; online orders need a subtotal above $0 with one non-Marketplace item; in store needs the coupon code from the app or birthday email; while quantities last; no rainchecks
Company offer, not a government benefit. Offers can change; check the company's page before you go.
Company offer Now through Dec 31
Verizon Forward: up to $30/mo off home internet
Verizon says qualifying customers get "a service discount of up to $30/mo" and home internet "as low as $20/mo" (that price needs a Verizon phone plan or Lifeline, depending on the service).
- Who
- New or existing Verizon home internet and Frontier Fiber customers on eligible plans
- Good to know
- A company offer. Qualify through Lifeline, SNAP, Medicaid, WIC, SSI, Pell Grant (past year), public housing, VA pension, some tribal programs, or income at or below 200% of poverty guidelines; upload eligibility documents if asked; one discount per account; lowest price needs other conditions
Company offer, not a government benefit. Offers can change; check the company's page before you go.
Company offer Now through Dec 31
Walmart+ Assist: Walmart+ at half price for SNAP, WIC, Medicaid
Walmart says monthly and yearly plans are "50% off the regular price": "Get all the benefits for $6.47/mo. or $49/yr." Free 30-day trial.
- Who
- U.S. Walmart customers who get government help such as SNAP, WIC or Medicaid
- Good to know
- A company offer. Eligibility checked by SheerID; Walmart says no credit check and no impact to existing government benefits; checked again each year; free 30-day trial, then billed; free delivery needs a $35 order minimum; restrictions apply
Company offer, not a government benefit. Offers can change; check the company's page before you go.
Company offer Now through Dec 31
Xfinity Internet Essentials: home internet from $14.95/mo
Xfinity says Internet Essentials costs "$14.95/mo for up to 75 Mbps, or $29.95/mo for up to 100 Mbps" for qualifying households.
- Who
- Homes where Xfinity Internet is available
- Good to know
- A company offer. In a qualifying program (school lunch, housing help, Medicaid, SNAP and others); no Xfinity Internet in the last 90 days; no Comcast debt less than 1 year old; residential only; restrictions apply
Company offer, not a government benefit. Offers can change; check the company's page before you go.
Nothing open right now. We add new items as soon as they are confirmed.
Scam alerts
Warnings from the FTC and other agencies about scams that peak this time of year.
Scam alert Now through Jan 15, 2027
FTC: watch for fake Medicare and HealthCare.gov ads
The FTC warns scams "pick up during Open Enrollment." Type Medicare.gov or HealthCare.gov yourself, skip "Ad" or "Sponsored" results, and treat prerecorded health-insurance robocalls as a red flag.
- Who
- People shopping for Medicare or Marketplace plans
- Good to know
- None stated
Read our guideFTC Consumer Alerts (Sept 28 and Oct 29, 2026) ↗
Scam alert Nov 1 – Dec 31
CISA: holiday shopping phishing emails and fake store links
CISA says to type a store's web address yourself instead of clicking email or ad links, never give passwords or financial details in reply to an unexpected email, and use a credit card rather than debit.
- Who
- Online shoppers nationwide
- Good to know
- None stated
Read our guideCISA: #SecureTheSeason Holiday Online Shopping Safety ↗
Scam alert Nov 1 – Dec 31
FTC: fake 'too good to be true' holiday deals
The FTC warns scammers advertise brand-name items at very low prices, often on social media, then send fakes or nothing. Sellers who say you can only pay by gift card, wire transfer, payment app or crypto are probably scammers.
- Who
- Online shoppers nationwide, especially around Black Friday (Nov 27) and Cyber Monday (Nov 30)
- Good to know
- None stated
Read our guideFTC Consumer Alert (Nov 25, 2025): How to avoid an online shopping scam this holiday season ↗
Scam alert Nov 1 – Dec 31
FTC: scammers posing as well-known charities and sweepstakes
The FTC warns scammers use real charities' names or sound-alikes, including in search and social media ads. "Legitimate sweepstakes are free and by chance"; paying to claim a prize means it's a scam.
- Who
- Anyone donating or entering contests this giving season
- Good to know
- None stated
Scam alert Nov 1 – Dec 31
Postal Inspectors: fake package-delivery texts and emails
Postal Inspectors warn fake texts or emails about a package delivery, unpaid postage, or a "Delivery Failure Notification" steal personal data. Don't click links. Forward scam texts to 7726 or email spam@uspis.gov.
- Who
- Anyone shipping or expecting packages this holiday season
- Good to know
- None stated
U.S. Postal Inspection Service: Cut Out Crime This Holiday Season ↗
Scam alert Nov 1 – Dec 31
SSA: its services are free; don't pay fees by gift card or wire
SSA's 2027 COLA page: its services are free, and "No government agency or reputable company will solicit your personal information or request advanced fees" by wire transfer or gift card. Notices come by mail or my Social Security.
- Who
- Social Security and SSI recipients
- Good to know
- None stated
Scam alert Nov 1 – Dec 31
USPS tracking texts never include a link
Postal Inspectors say USPS texts you only if you asked to track a package, and those texts "will NOT contain a link." Forward fake texts to 7726. If you clicked, tell your bank.
- Who
- Anyone expecting packages
- Good to know
- None stated
Read our guideU.S. Postal Inspection Service: Smishing: Package Tracking Text Scams ↗
Nothing open right now. We add new items as soon as they are confirmed.
Coming in December
Official date Tue, Dec 1
Dec 1: Nebraska SNAP stops covering soda and energy drinks
USDA: Nebraska "restricts purchase of soda, soft drinks, and energy drinks" starting Dec 1, 2026, and adds candy on March 1, 2027.
- Who
- SNAP households in Nebraska
- Good to know
- USDA target implementation date; candy is added March 1, 2027.
Read our guideUSDA FNA: SNAP Food Restriction Waivers (page updated Oct 30, 2026) ↗
Official date Tue, Dec 1
Dec 1: winter shutoff protections start in IL, PA, IN, ID, MS
The LIHEAP Clearinghouse lists protections from Dec 1: IL, PA, MS to Mar 31; IN to Mar 15; ID to Feb 28.
- Who
- Illinois, Pennsylvania, Indiana, Idaho, Mississippi
- Good to know
- Rules differ: e.g., PA covers customers at or below 250% of poverty; IN covers people on public assistance; ID covers homes with children, people 62+ or infirm.
Read our guideLIHEAP Clearinghouse (HHS/ACF): Seasonal Termination Protection Regulations ↗
Official date Tue, Dec 1
SSI payment: Tuesday, Dec 1
SSA's 2026 calendar marks Dec 1 as the regular December SSI payment date. A second SSI payment (January's) follows on Dec 31.
- Who
- SSI recipients
- Good to know
- None stated
Read our guideSSA Pub. 05-10031: Schedule of Social Security Benefit Payments 2026 ↗
Official date Dec 3 – Dec 23
December Social Security dates: Dec 3, 9, 16, 23
SSA's calendar shows: Dec 3 (paid-on-the-3rd group), Dec 9 (birthdays 1st-10th), Dec 16 (11th-20th), Dec 23 (21st-31st). These are the last payments before the 2027 increase.
- Who
- Social Security beneficiaries
- Good to know
- Your day depends on birth date; pre-May 1997 and SSI+Social Security recipients are paid on the 3rd.
Read our guideSSA Pub. 05-10031: Schedule of Social Security Benefit Payments 2026 ↗
Deadline Sat, Dec 5
Santa letters must be postmarked by Dec 5
USPS: "Saturday, December 5: This is the last day to send letters. Letters must be postmarked by this date."
- Who
- Families sending letters to USPS Operation Santa
- Good to know
- Address to 123 Elf Road, North Pole, 88888 with postage and a full return address. No guarantee of adoption.
Deadline Mon, Dec 7
Last day to change Medicare plans for 2027: Dec 7
Medicare Open Enrollment ends Monday, Dec 7. Coverage changes start Jan 1. Compare plans at Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).
- Who
- People with Medicare
- Good to know
- The plan must get your request by Dec 7.
Read our guideCMS press release (Sept 28, 2026); Medicare.gov: Joining a plan ↗
Deadline Fri, Dec 11
Dec 11: federal funding runs out unless Congress acts
Public Law 119-103 funds the government "through December 11, 2026." In SSA's last shutdown notice (Feb 2026) it said Social Security and SSI payments "will continue with no change in payment dates."
- Who
- Federal agencies and programs funded year to year
- Good to know
- None stated
Congress.gov: H.R. 6500 (Public Law 119-103); SSA blog, Feb 2, 2026 ↗
Deadline Tue, Dec 15
Dec 15: last day to pick a plan that starts Jan 1
HealthCare.gov: "December 15: Last day to enroll in or change plans for coverage to start January 1."
- Who
- HealthCare.gov states (state-run marketplaces may differ)
- Good to know
- Coverage starts Jan 1 only if you enroll or change plans by Dec 15 and pay your first premium.
Official date Thu, Dec 31
Dec 31: January SSI arrives early, with the 3.6% raise
SSA says increased SSI payments "will begin on December 31, 2026." Its calendar also marks Dec 31 for the paid-on-the-3rd group. That makes two SSI payments in December and none in January.
- Who
- SSI recipients; also Social Security recipients normally paid on the 3rd
- Good to know
- None stated
Read our guideSSA: COLA Information for 2027; SSA Pub. 05-10031 (2026/2027 calendars) ↗
Deadline Thu, Dec 31
PA Property Tax/Rent Rebate: apply by Dec 31
PA Revenue: "The deadline to submit your rebate application is December 31, 2026." Standard rebates range from $380 to $1,000 based on income.
- Who
- Pennsylvania homeowners and renters 65+, widow(er)s 50+, people with disabilities 18+
- Good to know
- Household income $48,110 or less a year; this deadline is for 2025 rebates (property taxes or rent paid in 2025); applications postmarked by Dec 31, 2026 are accepted.
Read our guidePA Department of Revenue: Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program ↗
Official date Dec 31 – Dec 31, 2027
2027 SSI maximum: $1,029 a month for one person
SSA's 2027 fact sheet lists the SSI federal payment standard at $1,029 a month for an individual (up from $994) and $1,544 for a couple (up from $1,491).
- Who
- SSI recipients (federal amount; some states add a supplement)
- Good to know
- Federal maximum before any countable income is subtracted; actual payment can be lower.
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Common questions
How do you check these dates?
Every item comes from the agency's or company's own page, and we show the date we last checked it. Dates and offers can change, so the official page always has the final word.
Are the freebies government benefits?
No. Freebies and deals come from companies and are labeled as company offers. Many need a purchase, an app, proof of service or a participating location. Check the company's page before you go.
When does this page change?
We rebuild it at the start of each month and add new items as they are confirmed. Items drop off after they end. Next month: December.
Does a date here mean I will get money?
No. A date tells you when something happens or when to act. Each program or company decides who gets what.