Big changes are coming for Social Security recipients in 2025! The Social Security Administration (SSA) has updated its payment schedule and increased benefits, giving millions of Americans a financial boost in the new year. If you receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security benefits, here’s what you need to know.
SSI Payments Are Going Up in 2025
Thanks to a 2.5% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA), SSI recipients will see their monthly payments increase in 2025. This adjustment is meant to help keep up with inflation and rising costs.
- Individuals on SSI will now receive up to $967 per month (up from $943 in 2024).
- Eligible couples will see their maximum payment rise to $1,450 per month (previously $1,415).
However, the actual amount you receive may vary depending on your income, living arrangements, and other financial factors. The commonly mentioned $762 average payment applies to many SSI recipients aged 18 to 64 but may not reflect what every individual receives.
When Will You Get Your Social Security Payments in 2025?
Social Security and SSI payments follow a set schedule, but if your payment date falls on a weekend or federal holiday, you’ll get it a day early.
Here’s the 2025 SSI payment schedule:
- February payment: Arrives on January 31 (since February 1 is a Saturday).
- May payment: Arrives on April 30 (since May 1 falls on a Thursday).
- August payment: Arrives on July 31 (since August 1 is a Friday).
- November payment: Arrives on October 31 (since November 1 is a Saturday).
For regular Social Security payments, your payment date depends on your birthday:
- If your birthday falls between the 1st and 10th, you’ll get paid on the second Wednesday of the month.
- If your birthday falls between the 11th and 20th, you’ll get paid on the third Wednesday of the month.
- If your birthday falls between the 21st and 31st, you’ll get paid on the fourth Wednesday of the month.
For example, in January 2025:
- Those with birthdays from the 1st-10th will be paid on January 8.
- Birthdays from the 11th-20th will be paid on January 15.
- Birthdays from the 21st-31st will be paid on January 22.
Who Qualifies for SSI in 2025?
To qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must meet the following requirements:
- Age 65 or older, or be blind or disabled according to SSA guidelines.
- Have limited income and resources (less than $2,000 in assets for individuals, or $3,000 for couples).
How to Apply for SSI or Social Security Benefits
If you think you qualify for SSI, you can apply in three ways:
- Online: Visit the official SSA website to apply.
- By Phone: Call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 to schedule an appointment.
- In Person: Visit your local Social Security office to apply.
When applying, be ready to provide proof of your income, resources, and—if applying based on disability—your medical records.
Final Thoughts
With Social Security payments increasing and a new payment schedule in place, 2025 brings important updates for beneficiaries. Make sure you mark your calendar so you don’t miss your payment dates!
For the latest updates, visit the official Social Security website or call their toll-free number for assistance.