SSI, Social Security benefits increase

People with disabilities who receive Social Security and Supplemental Security benefits can expect more money next year.

The Social Security Administration said Thursday that monthly payments will rise 2.5% in 2025.

The change is due to an annual automatic cost of living adjustment (COLA) tied to inflation.

With the increase, SSI will pay individuals a maximum federal benefit of $967 per month, up from $943 this year. For couples, the maximum amount is $1,450 per month instead of $1,415.

Actual payments could be higher because some states make additional contributions.

“Social Security benefits and SSI payments will increase in 2025, helping tens of millions of people keep up with their spending even as inflation begins to ease,” said Social Security Commissioner Martin O’Malley.

For the nearly 7.5 million Americans who receive SSI payments, including many with disabilities, the new payment amounts will take effect Dec. 31, with Social Security following in January.

The agency said it will notify benefit recipients of their new benefit amounts by mail beginning in early December. The information is also available online to people who have an account on the Social Security website.

The notices will use a new, simplified format that features plain language and includes accurate dates and dollar amounts, as well as details of any deductions, on one page, the Social Security Administration said.

Over the past decade, COLA has averaged 2.6%, but the last three years have seen much more significant increases in benefits — 3.2% this year, 8.7% in 2023 and 5, according to the agency .9% in 2022.

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