Extra Social Security payments this month should total close to $9 million in Linn and Benton counties.

Congressman Kurt Schrader, D-5th District, said in a press statement that starting today, Oregonians who receive Social Security benefits can expect a $250 payment from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, passed by Congress in February.

All payments should be distributed by the end of May.

According to the Social Security Administration, recipients total more than 12,000 in Benton County and more than 23,000 in Linn. Statewide, some 600,000 Oregonians will get the additional $250.

The payments will be distributed as an extra Social Security check or automatic deposit, depending on how individuals typically receive their benefits.

Later in May, similar $250 payments will go out to Railroad Retirement Board beneficiaries, followed by Veteran Compensation and Pension beneficiaries in June.

Altogether, Oregonians will receive more than $168 million in payments.

Individuals who qualify for these payments and have not received them by the end of July can call Schrader's office for assistance at 1-877-301-KURT.

Schrader served in the state legislature from Canby before being elected to the U.S. House last fall. The 5th District includes northern Benton County.

Democrat-Herald