For millions of Americans, getting a Social Security check every month is not just about receiving money. It’s about living with dignity, paying the rent on time, buying needed medicines, and putting food on the table without worry.
For retirees and people with disabilities who can no longer work, this stable income is the backbone of their financial security.
Even small increases in Social Security benefits make a real difference. That’s why the payment arriving on April 23 is bringing some much-needed good news, thanks to the Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) for 2025.
Let’s dive into who will get the payment, how much it could be, and tips on how you can increase your Social Security benefits in the future.
Social Security COLA Increase: What’s Happening on April 23?
Starting this year, Social Security benefits were adjusted by a 2.5% COLA to help match the rise in living costs. This means the check many people receive now is slightly bigger compared to last year.
On April 23, the fourth group of beneficiaries will get their payment. Here’s who qualifies:
- People who started receiving benefits after May 1997.
- People whose birthdays fall between the 21st and 31st of any month.
This payment applies to both retirees and those receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). It doesn’t matter how long you’ve been getting benefits — if you fit these two conditions, your increased payment will land on April 23.
After the 2025 COLA adjustment, the maximum amounts are:
- Retirement Benefits: Up to $5,108 per month
- Disability Benefits: Up to $4,018 per month
It’s important to remember that this is not a bonus or extra check. The COLA increase is built into your regular monthly benefit to help your money keep up with rising prices.
How You Can Boost Your Future Social Security Benefits
If you haven’t started claiming Social Security yet, there are smart ways to make sure you get the highest possible amount when you do. Here are the key strategies:
Delay Your Retirement
If you can, hold off on claiming Social Security benefits beyond your full retirement age. For each year you delay (up to age 70), your monthly check grows by a significant percentage. Waiting even a year or two can make a noticeable difference.
Work for at Least 35 Years
Social Security bases your benefits on your highest-earning 35 years of work. If you have fewer than 35 years, the system adds zeros for the missing years, which lowers your average and your monthly benefit. The longer and more consistently you work, the better your final payout.
Earn More During Your Career
Higher earnings lead to higher Social Security benefits. If you’re able to boost your income over time — whether through promotions, side jobs, or career changes — it can help you later during retirement.
For People With Disabilities
If you are receiving disability benefits, you cannot delay your application like retirees can. However, you can make sure your work history is accurate. If you think there is an error in your record, you can request a review. Also, if your condition worsens, you might qualify for additional support.
Planning your Social Security future isn’t always easy, especially during uncertain times. But by understanding how the system works, you can make better choices and take advantage of increases like the 2025 COLA adjustment.
Being informed means even a small bump in your monthly check, like the one arriving on April 23, can feel like a little more breathing room and a little more peace of mind.