Over 7.5 million Americans who rely on Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are eagerly awaiting the 2025 Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA).
This 2.5% increase, set to begin in January 2025, will provide a much-needed boost to SSI recipients, helping them keep up with rising living costs.
Here’s what to expect from the increase and how it will impact your payments.
Who Will Receive the $288 Extra in 2025?
Individuals who qualify for the maximum SSI payment in 2024 and maintain their eligibility in 2025 will receive an additional $288 per year. This increase breaks down to $23 per month, or $288 over the course of the year.
For individuals receiving the maximum SSI benefit:
- 2024 Maximum Amount: $943 per month
- 2025 Maximum Amount: Approximately $967 per month with a 2.5% increase
This means individuals will see $23 extra per month, adding up to $288 annually.
SSI Increase for Married Couples
For eligible married couples receiving SSI, the boost will be even more substantial:
- 2024 Maximum Amount: $1,415 per month
- 2025 Maximum Amount: Approximately $1,450 per month with the COLA increase
This results in $35 extra per month, which totals $420 over 12 months for couples, reflecting a larger benefit due to two recipients in the household.
SSI for Essential Persons
In addition to individuals and married couples, essential persons (those who live with and provide support to an SSI recipient) will also see an increase:
- 2024 Maximum Amount: $472 per month
- 2025 Maximum Amount: Approximately $483 per month with the COLA increase
Essential persons will receive $11 extra per month or $132 annually.
2025 SSI Payment Breakdown After COLA:
| Recipient | 2024 Maximum | 2025 Maximum | Monthly Increase | Annual Increase |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Individual | $943 | $967 | $23 | $288 |
| Married Couple | $1,415 | $1,450 | $35 | $420 |
| Essential Person | $472 | $483 | $11 | $132 |
Eligibility Requirements for SSI Payments
To qualify for SSI payments, recipients must meet specific criteria:
- Low Income: Applicants must meet the program’s strict income limits.
- Age 65 or Older, or
- Disability or Blindness: Individuals must either be over 65, have a qualifying disability, or be blind to receive SSI benefits.
If you don’t meet these key requirements, you won’t be eligible to apply for SSI, or you may lose eligibility if your circumstances change.
With the 2025 COLA increase, SSI recipients will see modest yet meaningful boosts in their monthly payments starting in January 2025.
While an individual can receive up to $288 extra per year, married couples will benefit from an even larger increase, receiving up to $420 annually. This boost will help millions of Americans manage their day-to-day expenses as inflation continues to impact the cost of living.
FAQs
When will SSI recipients see the 2025 COLA increase?
The increase will be reflected in January 2025 payments.
How much extra will an individual receive in 2025?
An individual will receive $23 extra per month, or $288 annually.
How much will married couples receive with the COLA increase?
Married couples can expect $35 extra per month, or $420 annually.
What are the requirements to qualify for SSI?
To qualify for SSI, you must have a low income, be at least 65 years old, or have a disability or blindness.
Will essential persons see an increase in 2025?
Yes, essential persons will receive an additional $11 per month, or $132 annually.
