If you rely on Social Security through SSI or SSDI, there’s some good news coming your way in 2025. A new cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) will bump up your monthly payments starting January, offering a little more breathing room in your budget. These yearly increases help your benefits keep pace with inflation—so your money stretches a bit further, even when prices go up.
Increase
Let’s get straight to the numbers. The COLA for 2025 is set at 3.2%. That might not sound huge, but it’s enough to provide noticeable increases for millions of Americans. If you’re getting SSI, your monthly check will rise. For individuals, the maximum monthly amount will go from $914 to $943. For couples, it goes from $1,371 to $1,415.
If you’re on SSDI, you’ll see a similar boost. The average monthly payment jumps from $1,483 to around $1,533. For families, like a disabled worker with dependents, the increase could take monthly benefits from $2,616 to about $2,700.
Here’s a quick look at what that means:
| Benefit Type | 2024 Amount | 2025 Amount | Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| SSI (Individual) | $914 | $943 | +$29 |
| SSI (Couple) | $1,371 | $1,415 | +$44 |
| SSDI (Average Individual) | $1,483 | $1,533 | +$50 |
| SSDI (Family) | $2,616 | $2,700 | +$84 |
Timing
So, when will you actually see the increase? If you’re receiving SSI, expect the higher payment as early as December 31, 2024, which counts toward your January 2025 benefit. SSDI payments, on the other hand, kick in with the usual schedule in January 2025. The exact date depends on your birthday:
- 1st–10th: Paid on the second Wednesday
- 11th–20th: Paid on the third Wednesday
- 21st–31st: Paid on the fourth Wednesday
Impact
Why does this adjustment matter? Simple—it helps you keep up. Inflation eats into buying power, especially for folks on fixed incomes. This 3.2% hike might just help cover that higher grocery bill or a few more utilities.
Take John, an SSI recipient who gets $800 a month. With this adjustment, he’ll now get around $825 monthly. That’s roughly $300 more over the year—not game-changing, but definitely helpful. Similarly, Jane, an SSDI recipient who receives $1,200, will now get about $1,238.
Extras
Don’t forget about state supplements. Many states kick in a little extra on top of the federal SSI benefit. California, for instance, adds about $160 monthly for individuals. That can significantly boost your bottom line—so check with your local social services office.
Also, if you’re receiving SSDI and are looking into work options, look into the Ticket to Work Program. It’s designed to help you ease back into employment with support from SSA-approved providers. Plus, if you’re on Medicare, watch for potential changes in your premiums tied to the COLA adjustment.
History
COLA has been around since 1975. It’s been as high as 14.3% in 1980 and as low as 0% in years when inflation barely moved (like 2010 and 2016). On average, COLA increases hover around 2% per year, so 2025’s 3.2% is a bit above that.
Tracking
Want to confirm how much more you’ll get?
- Log into your SSA Account: You’ll find your benefit info under “My Profile.”
- Watch for the mail: SSA mails out COLA notices in December.
- Use the COLA calculator: Head to SSA.gov for their benefit estimator.
- Visit your local SSA office: They can help with anything you don’t understand.
Whether you rely on SSI or SSDI, this increase helps offset higher costs and brings some extra peace of mind. It might not cover everything, but it’s a steady step forward. Every dollar counts, especially when you’re on a fixed income.
FAQs
How much is the 2025 COLA?
The 2025 COLA is 3.2%.
When will new SSI payments start?
Payments start December 31, 2024.
What is the max SSI in 2025?
$943 for individuals and $1,415 for couples.
How much will SSDI increase?
SSDI payments will increase by about $50 on average.
How to check my new payment?
Log into your SSA account or check your mailed notice.
