The Social Security Administration (SSA) has announced that eligible couples receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) will soon see an increase in their maximum payment, reaching up to $1,450. This adjustment, which includes a 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for 2025, will be implemented before the year’s end. Since January 1, 2025, is a holiday, the payments are scheduled for December 29, 2024, as per the SSA’s payment calendar.
Here’s a breakdown of how the new COLA adjustment will impact various SSI beneficiaries:
| Beneficiary Category | Current Monthly Check | 2025 Monthly Check (with COLA) | Increase Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Benefits | $698 | $715 | $17 |
| Individuals | $943 | $967 | $24 |
| Couples | $1,415 | $1,450 | $35 |
| Essential Persons | $472 | $484 | $12 |
What to Do If Payments Are Delayed?
If your SSI payment does not arrive on time, the SSA suggests waiting for at least three mailing days before reaching out. Delays are typically caused by your bank, not the SSA. Beneficiaries can also access their My Social Security account to:
- View financial statements
- Track payment schedules
- Request more details about benefits
Eligibility for SSI Benefits
To qualify for SSI, individuals must meet certain SSA criteria. The program is designed to support elderly or disabled individuals who have limited income and resources. The eligibility requirements include:
- Minimal or no financial resources
- Low or no income
- Age 65 or older, blindness, or a qualifying disability
2024 Maximum Benefit Amounts:
- Individuals: $943 per month
- Couples: $1,415 per month
It’s important to note that Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), unlike SSI, requires a work history. SSI eligibility is based purely on financial need and specific qualifications.
New SSI Application Process
सम्बंधित ख़बरें
The SSA has introduced a new, simplified online application tool called iClaim, designed to speed up the process for both applicants and adjudicators.
- Phase One (2024): Available to first-time applicants between 18 and 65, who are unmarried and applying for both SSI and Social Security benefits.
- Phase Two (2025): This phase will expand the system’s reach to additional applicants.
2025 Social Security Payment Schedule with COLA Updates
Though the new system promises to make applications more efficient, not all applicants will have access immediately during the initial rollout.
Key Differences Between SSI and SSDI Benefits
While both SSI and SSDI provide financial support, they have key differences in eligibility and benefits:
| Feature | SSI | SSDI |
|---|---|---|
| Eligibility | Age, disability, limited income/resources | Disability and work credits |
| Health Benefits | Medicaid (in most states) | Medicare (after 24 months of benefits) |
| Funding Source | Federal income taxes | Social Security payroll taxes |
| Work History Requirement | Not required | Required |
FAQs
- When will couples receive the increased SSI payment? Couples will receive their adjusted payment, including the 2.5% COLA increase, on December 29, 2024, due to the New Year’s holiday on January 1, 2025.
- What should I do if I don’t receive my SSI payment on time? Wait at least three mailing days before contacting the SSA. Delays are often due to bank processing issues.
- Can I apply for SSI benefits online? Yes, the SSA is rolling out a new online application system called iClaim to simplify and speed up the application process.