The Social Security Administration (SSA) recently announced a 2.5% benefit increase in 2025 for recipients of Social Security benefits and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Over 72 million Americans will enjoy this change. Retirement benefits will, on average, increase by about $50 per month beginning in January 2025.
Cost-of-Living Adjustments for SSI Payments
Cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) have averaged around 2.6 percent over the last 10 years. The COLA in 2024 was 3.2%. The increase in payments will materialize before you know it, and will be especially impactful for people who receive both Social Security and SSI payments.
- Close to 7.5 million SSI beneficiaries will notice an increase in their payments beginning December 31, 2024.
- Nearly 68 million Social Security beneficiaries will see a difference in their amounts.
- Expect a notification by mail in early December regarding new benefit amounts.
“Social Security benefits and SSI payments will increase in 2025, helping tens of millions of people keep up with expenses even as inflation has started to cool,” said Martin O’Malley, Commissioner of Social Security.
Making Changes Easier to Understand
Social Security benefits in any form, whether retirement payments, SSI, or SSDI, can be confusing. This year, beneficiaries will receive a newly designed COLA notice in the mail. This one-page document is intended to simplify the most essential information so it’s easier to absorb the changes and understand how benefits have been altered.
- Uses plain language.
- Is personalized for the recipient.
- Provides exact dates.
- Includes exact dollar amounts of new benefits.
- Points out any deductions.
If You Don’t Want to Wait for Snail Mail
It can be worrisome to wait for a letter from Social Security regarding your account. There is an online Social Security system that allows users to view their COLA notice in a secure, fast, easy way. There is also an option to set up text or email alerts so any new messages that appear can be read right away. To see a COLA notice online, it’s necessary to have a personal account by November 20, 2024. It’s easy to get started.
Plus, Changes to the SSI Application
In addition to the COLA and increase in SSI payments, remember too that the SSI application has undergone a makeover to deliver a faster and easier process. Anyone who has felt daunted by the application can now save time and secure benefits more quickly through an intuitive online system.
Get Help Applying for SSI Benefits
Understanding and navigating the ins and outs of Social Security and SSI can be difficult, especially for older adults and those who are disabled. Rely on an experienced SSI lawyer for help with applications, claims, and appeals. Don’t get overlooked in the over two million SSI applications filed each year. Contact Thurswell Law to support you. Schedule a consultation by calling (248) 354-2222 today. We do not charge any fees until we win.