In April 2025, millions of Americans receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) will see a welcome boost in their monthly checks. This change, driven by the Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA), is designed to help recipients better manage rising living expenses. If you depend on these benefits or are planning to apply, here’s what you need to know.
Increases
Let’s start with the basics. Thanks to the 2.5% COLA increase, here are the new payment amounts:
Benefit Type | Previous Amount | New Amount (2025) |
---|---|---|
SSI (Individual) | $943 | $967 |
SSI (Couples) | $1,415 | $1,450 |
SSDI (Average) | $1,542 | $1,580 |
SSDI (Maximum) | $3,822 | $4,018 |
SSI Essential Person | $472 | $484 |
That may not seem like a lot at first glance, but stretched across 12 months, it makes a real difference—especially for those on fixed incomes.
COLA
So, what’s COLA and why should you care? It stands for Cost-of-Living Adjustment. Every year, the Social Security Administration (SSA) reviews inflation and adjusts payments to keep pace. In 2025, that increase is 2.5%, which reflects rising prices for essentials like food, rent, and medical care.
Without COLA, your benefits wouldn’t keep up with inflation. That’s why this annual update is so important for your financial stability.
SSI
SSI is a federal benefit for low-income individuals who are either aged 65 or older, blind, or disabled. In 2025, payments are increasing:
- Individuals will now receive $967 per month.
- Couples who both qualify will receive $1,450 per month.
- Caregivers or “essential persons” will receive $484.
These increases aim to help SSI recipients better manage rising living expenses and maintain a minimum standard of living.
Example:
Let’s say you receive SSI as a single individual. That $24 monthly increase adds up to $288 per year—enough to help cover rising utility bills or out-of-pocket medical expenses.
SSDI
SSDI supports people who are disabled and have a qualifying work history. This year’s update includes:
- Average monthly payment rises to $1,580.
- The maximum SSDI benefit for high earners is now $4,018.
To qualify for SSDI, you must have worked and paid Social Security taxes. If you’re unsure whether you qualify, the SSA’s online tools can help you figure it out.
Example:
If your SSDI check is $1,580 starting in April, that’s $38 more per month than last year. While not huge, it can ease the pressure of high medical or household expenses.
Dates
Timing is everything, especially when budgeting your monthly income.
SSI Payment Schedule:
- Paid on the 1st of each month.
- If the 1st falls on a weekend or holiday, payment comes on the last business day before.
SSDI Payment Schedule:
- If born on the 1st–10th: Paid 2nd Wednesday.
- Born 11th–20th: Paid 3rd Wednesday.
- Born 21st–31st: Paid 4th Wednesday.
Keeping track of these dates helps you plan bills, shopping, and other expenses around your deposit.
Eligibility
To qualify for SSI:
- You must be 65 or older, or disabled.
- You must have limited income and resources.
To qualify for SSDI:
- You need a sufficient work history and have paid Social Security taxes.
- You must be medically disabled and unable to work.
You can check eligibility for both at ssa.gov. There, you can also create a my Social Security account to track payments, update info, and apply for benefits.
Planning
If you’re on a fixed income, even small changes in benefits matter. The best way to stay ahead? Budget well and use SSA tools to forecast changes.
You can also find nonprofit legal services or advocacy groups if you need help applying or appealing a denied claim. These services are often free or low-cost.
By understanding how the 2025 COLA increase affects your SSI or SSDI payments, you can better plan, manage your income, and prepare for future changes.
FAQs
How much is the new SSI amount for 2025?
$967 for individuals and $1,450 for couples.
What is the COLA increase for 2025?
2.5% for both SSI and SSDI recipients.
When will I get my SSI payment?
Usually on the 1st unless it’s a weekend or holiday.
How is SSDI payment date decided?
Based on your birthdate (Wednesdays of the month).
Where can I check my eligibility?
Visit ssa.gov to check SSI or SSDI eligibility.