Great news for millions of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients! Starting in 2025, beneficiaries will see an increase in their monthly payments thanks to a 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). This means more money in the pockets of seniors, people with disabilities, and others who rely on SSI to make ends meet.
How Much Will You Get?
The new maximum SSI payments for 2025 are as follows:
- Individuals: $967 per month (up from $943 in 2024)
- Eligible Couples: $1,450 per month (up from $1,415 in 2024)
This increase is designed to help recipients keep up with inflation and the rising cost of living. While an extra $337 a month might not seem like much, it adds up to more than $4,000 annually—making a significant difference for those on a fixed income.
When Will You Receive Your 2025 SSI Payments?
SSI payments are usually sent out on the first of each month. However, if that date falls on a weekend or federal holiday, the payment is sent on the previous business day. Here’s the 2025 schedule:
- January: December 31, 2024 (since Jan. 1 is a holiday)
- February: January 31
- March: March 1
- April: April 1
- May: May 1
- June: May 30 (since June 1 falls on a weekend)
- July: July 1
- August: August 1
- September: August 29 (since Sept. 1 is a holiday)
- October: October 1
- November: November 1
- December: November 29 (since Dec. 1 is a weekend)
Who Qualifies for SSI?
To receive SSI, you must meet specific criteria:
- Age or Disability: You must be 65 or older, blind, or have a disability that limits your ability to work.
- Low Income: Your income must fall below the federal limit.
- Limited Resources: Your total assets must be under $2,000 for individuals or $3,000 for couples.
- Residency: You must live in the U.S. or its territories.
How to Apply for SSI
If you’re not yet receiving SSI but think you qualify, you can apply in three ways:
- Online: Visit the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) website.
- By Phone: Call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778).
- In Person: Visit your local Social Security office.
Make sure you have documents like proof of income, Social Security number, and medical records (if applying for disability).
Will the Increase Be Enough?
While any increase is welcome, some experts argue that a 2.5% boost might not be enough to keep up with rising costs. Many recipients still struggle to afford necessities like food, housing, and healthcare. Advocacy groups continue to push for further increases and additional benefits to support low-income Americans.
For now, SSI beneficiaries can look forward to slightly higher payments starting in January 2025. To stay updated, check the SSA’s website regularly and plan ahead to make the most of the extra funds.
