Great news for millions of Americans! In 2025, Social Security benefits, including Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), and Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits, are set to increase. The rise comes thanks to a 2.5% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA), providing higher monthly payments to help offset inflation and rising living expenses.
Here’s a breakdown of how much you can expect to receive and when payments will arrive.
Social Security Benefits: Bigger Checks in 2025
Retirees can expect an average monthly increase of about $50, bringing the typical Social Security retirement benefit to $1,976 per month. For those retiring at full retirement age, the maximum benefit has risen to $4,018. This increase is automatic, so beneficiaries won’t need to take any action to see the higher payments.
SSI Payments: A Boost for Low-Income Americans
The maximum federal SSI payment has increased to $967 per month for eligible individuals. For couples, the maximum monthly payment is now $1,450. These adjustments aim to provide much-needed financial relief to individuals and families relying on SSI to cover essential expenses.
SSDI Benefits: Higher Support for Disability Recipients
SSDI beneficiaries will also see their payments rise in 2025. The average SSDI benefit will increase to $1,580 per month, with the maximum benefit reaching $4,018. For those with disabilities, this additional support can go a long way in meeting daily needs.
VA Benefits: Veterans Get a Raise Too
Veterans receiving disability compensation and pension benefits will see the same 2.5% COLA increase. This adjustment ensures that VA benefits keep pace with inflation, providing essential financial stability to those who have served.
Payment Dates for 2025
Payment schedules vary depending on the type of benefit:
- Social Security: Payments are sent out based on your birth date.
- Birth dates 1st–10th: Payments go out on the second Wednesday of the month.
- Birth dates 11th–20th: Payments are made on the third Wednesday.
- Birth dates 21st–31st: Payments arrive on the fourth Wednesday.
- SSI: Payments are typically made on the first of each month.
- VA Benefits: Payments are usually sent on the first business day of the month.
Beneficiaries can check their exact payment schedule through their “My Social Security” account online or by consulting their local VA or Social Security office.
Why This Matters
With inflation still affecting the cost of living, the 2025 COLA increase offers vital support to retirees, individuals with disabilities, and veterans. This boost ensures beneficiaries can better manage their expenses and maintain financial stability.
If you’re a recipient of Social Security, SSI, SSDI, or VA benefits, you don’t need to take any action—the increases will automatically be reflected in your monthly payments starting in January 2025.
