Millions of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) recipients will see a boost in their payments starting January 2025. Thanks to a 2.5% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA), individuals receiving SSDI will get a little extra to help with rising expenses.
For many beneficiaries, this means additional payments of $431 or $508 depending on eligibility. The Social Security Administration (SSA) made this adjustment to keep up with inflation and ensure that people relying on disability benefits can maintain their standard of living.
How Much Will You Receive?
The COLA increase affects SSDI payments in different ways. Here’s a breakdown of what beneficiaries can expect:
- Individuals on SSDI will see their average payment increase from around $1,540 to $1,580 per month.
- Spouses receiving SSDI benefits may now receive about $508 monthly.
- Children of SSDI recipients could see their benefits rise to approximately $431 per month.
These amounts can vary based on each person’s earnings history and eligibility.
When Will You Get Paid?
SSDI payments follow a set schedule based on the recipient’s birth date. Here’s when you can expect your money in January 2025:
- If your birthday falls between the 1st and 10th, your payment will arrive on January 8, 2025.
- If your birthday is between the 11th and 20th, expect your deposit on January 15, 2025.
- If your birthday falls between the 21st and 31st, your money will arrive on January 22, 2025.
For those who have been receiving benefits since before May 1997, the payment will be made on January 3, 2025.
Who Qualifies for SSDI?
To receive SSDI benefits, individuals must meet certain criteria set by the SSA. These include:
- Having a qualifying disability that prevents you from working.
- Earning enough work credits by paying into Social Security through past jobs.
- Meeting income limits, which in 2025 will be $1,470 per month for most people and $2,460 for blind individuals.
If you’re already on SSDI, the increase will happen automatically. However, if you believe you qualify but haven’t applied, now might be a good time to check your eligibility.
How to Manage Your Benefits
To ensure you receive the correct payment amount, make sure to:
- Check your Social Security account regularly to monitor payments.
- Report any life changes such as a new job, marriage, or change of address to the SSA.
- Contact the SSA if you experience delays or errors in your payments.
As living costs continue to rise, these adjustments aim to provide much-needed relief to SSDI beneficiaries. Stay informed, check your payment schedule, and plan accordingly to make the most of your benefits in 2025.
