Starting October 1, 2024, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments will see some significant changes, benefitting over 7.5 million Americans.
Seniors aged 65 and above, people with disabilities, and individuals who are blind may notice an increase in their SSI checks.
For some, this could mean an additional $131 per month. Let’s explore who qualifies for these increases and how other changes to the program could impact you.
New SSI Payment Rules
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has announced that certain recipients will see increased payments starting October 1, 2024. Specifically, the increase of $131 will affect over 90,000 people who qualify for this boost.
This adjustment reflects changes in regulations that broaden eligibility and remove certain penalties that previously reduced payments for some recipients.
If you qualify for SSI and are younger than 18, October 1 will also be your payment date, regardless of your age. All recipients, including adults and children, share the same payment schedule. To qualify for SSI, you must meet one of the following criteria:
- Be aged 65 or older.
- Be blind or disabled.
- Have a low income and limited resources.
Maximum SSI Payment Amounts for October 2024
For some recipients, the full SSI payment in October will be as high as $943. However, this amount applies only to individuals who:
- Face no reductions.
- Qualify for the full amount.
- Remain compliant with Social Security Administration (SSA) rules.
If you have other earnings or financial resources, these could reduce your SSI payment. Currently, the average SSI check is $698, with those aged 65 and older receiving an average of $575.
| Category | Maximum Payment (Oct 2024) | Average Payment |
|---|---|---|
| Individual | $943 | $698 |
| Married Couple | $1,415 | Varies |
Reasons for Higher Payments in October
One of the key reasons for the increase in October 2024 payments is the removal of In-Kind Support and Maintenance (ISM).
Previously, if an SSI recipient regularly received food or shelter from someone else, their benefits would be reduced. With ISM now eliminated, those affected could receive higher payments.
Additionally, the SSA has changed its definition of a public assistance household, which could extend SSI eligibility to more low-income Americans. These changes, along with the expanded rental subsidy policy, mean more recipients will qualify for higher payments starting in October.
SSI Payment Schedule
If you’re wondering when your payment will arrive, October 1 is the key date for SSI recipients.
All eligible individuals, including children under 18 and adults, will receive their payments on this day. Married couples receiving SSI will also get their payments on October 1, with a maximum payment of $1,415.
What to Expect in 2025
Looking ahead to 2025, the Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) will further increase SSI payments. The projected COLA for 2025 is 2.57%, according to the Senior Citizens League.
This means that seniors who qualify for the maximum payment of $943 in 2024 could see their payments rise to around $966 in 2025.
For married couples, the increase will be from $1,415 to approximately $1,450. These COLA increases are designed to help beneficiaries keep up with inflation and rising living costs. However, the COLA adjustment won’t come into effect until December 31, 2024, with increased payments starting in early 2025.
SSI payments are set to increase for many recipients on October 1, 2024, with some seeing as much as $131 more per month.
The elimination of In-Kind Support and Maintenance and changes to public assistance rules mean that more low-income Americans will qualify for higher benefits.
Seniors aged 65 and older, blind individuals, and people with disabilities should check their eligibility to ensure they’re receiving the correct payment amounts.
Although the 2025 COLA increase won’t take effect until the end of the year, it promises further boosts to SSI payments, helping beneficiaries manage their expenses in the coming year.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the $943 SSI payment in October?
Recipients with no reductions and who meet full eligibility criteria will get $943.
Why are SSI payments increasing in October?
The SSA removed ISM, expanding eligibility and increasing some payments.
How much will SSI increase in 2025?
A COLA adjustment of 2.57% is expected, raising payments to $966 for some.
Will married couples receive more?
Yes, married couples could receive $1,415 in October 2024 and $1,450 after COLA.
When does the COLA adjustment take effect?
The 2025 COLA will be effective from December 31, 2024.
