For over 7.5 million Americans who rely on Supplemental Security Income (SSI), the 2025 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) is welcome news.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has confirmed that SSI recipients will be among the first to receive these benefit increases, aimed at helping them cope with inflation and rising costs.
In this article, we’ll explore which recipients will receive an additional $288 per year due to the 2025 COLA and how much the monthly payment increases will be for different categories.
How Much Will the 2025 COLA Increase Provide?
The 2025 COLA will raise SSI payments by 2.5%, which translates into an increase of approximately $23 extra per month for individual recipients.
While this might not seem like much on a monthly basis, it adds up to $288 extra per year for individuals who qualify for the maximum SSI amount.
This annual increase can help cover everyday expenses such as groceries and healthcare costs, which have been rising due to inflation.
Maximum Payments Before and After 2025 COLA
Here’s a breakdown of the maximum monthly SSI payments before and after the 2025 COLA increase:
| Category | 2024 Maximum Payment | 2025 Payment After 2.5% COLA |
|---|---|---|
| Individual | $943 | $967 |
| Eligible Married Couples | $1,415 | $1,450 |
| Essential Persons (Household) | $472 | $483 |
Individuals who qualify for the maximum SSI amount will see their monthly payment rise from $943 in 2024 to approximately $967 in 2025.
For eligible married couples, the maximum monthly payment will increase from $1,415 in 2024 to about $1,450 after the COLA.
Essential persons, who live in the household of an SSI recipient, will receive an extra $11 per month, bringing their payment from $472 to approximately $483.
Who Is Eligible for the $288 Annual Increase?
SSI recipients who receive the maximum allowable benefit in 2024 and remain eligible through 2025 will be the ones to receive this annual increase. The eligibility criteria for SSI include:
- Low income: SSI is designed to help people with limited income and resources.
- Age or disability: Recipients must be at least 65 years old, or have a qualifying disability or be blind.
- Citizenship: U.S. citizens or certain non-citizens may qualify for SSI.
If you meet these conditions and currently receive the maximum payment, you can expect an additional $23 per month in your SSI payments starting in 2025, totaling $288 for the year.
Married Couples: A Bigger Annual Boost
Married couples who qualify for SSI will see a more substantial increase. While individuals will receive up to $288 extra per year, married couples on SSI will receive up to $420 more annually due to the COLA adjustment.
Each monthly payment for married couples will include an additional $35. For couples relying on SSI, this extra money could help cover essential expenses, particularly in households with shared costs.
How to Qualify for SSI Payments
To qualify for SSI, recipients must meet certain income, age, and disability requirements. Here’s a quick overview:
- Low income: SSI is a needs-based program, so recipients must have limited income and resources.
- Age 65 or older: Most SSI recipients are seniors, but those under 65 can qualify if they have a qualifying disability or are legally blind.
- Disability or blindness: Those under 65 can qualify if they meet the SSA’s definition of disability, meaning they cannot work due to a medical condition that is expected to last at least one year or result in death.
If you are not currently receiving SSI but believe you may qualify, it’s important to apply as soon as possible. The SSA reviews applications and determines eligibility based on income, assets, and medical conditions for those under 65.
The 2025 COLA increase for SSI recipients provides some relief for individuals and married couples who rely on this federal benefit.
While the additional $23 per month or $288 per year may not seem like a massive change, it can make a significant difference for those who are struggling to meet basic living expenses.
If you are an SSI recipient or considering applying for SSI, it’s important to stay informed about these changes. For more details or to check your eligibility, visit the Social Security Administration (SSA) website or consult with a benefits advisor.
This modest increase aims to help offset rising costs, ensuring that recipients can maintain their financial stability in the face of inflation.
FAQs
How much extra will SSI recipients get in 2025?
Individual SSI recipients will receive $23 extra per month, adding up to $288 per year.
What is the new maximum SSI payment for individuals in 2025?
The maximum SSI payment for individuals will be approximately $967 per month after the 2025 COLA.
How much extra will married couples receive on SSI in 2025?
Married couples on SSI will receive up to $420 more per year, or $35 extra per month.
Who qualifies for the 2025 COLA increase?
SSI recipients who receive the maximum payment and meet the eligibility criteria for 2024 and 2025 will qualify for the COLA increase.
Can new applicants qualify for the 2025 SSI payment increase?
Yes, if new applicants meet the income, age, and disability requirements for SSI, they can qualify for the 2025 COLA adjustment.
