I received an extra deposit of $81 from Social Security on 10-5-16. Any idea why?

Hi,

No, but a number of other readers have mentioned getting similar payments in various amounts. I haven't heard of any special payments going out, but this is normally the time of year that Social Security processes automated benefit adjustments. So, the payment you received could be back pay due as a result of a retroactive rate adjustment for any of a variety of reasons (e.g. delayed retirement credits, additional earnings, etc.).

Direct deposits are often received up to a week or more in advance of the explanatory notices that Social Security sends in the mail, so I would wait a while to see if you receive an explanation. If you don't, you should probably check with Social Security.

Best, Jerry