Millions of retirees across the United States will see a 2.5% increase in their Social Security payments starting April 9, 2025. This change is part of the Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for 2025, which was officially applied in January, but now reflected in this month’s payments.
The purpose of this yearly adjustment is to help Social Security recipients keep up with rising prices and inflation. The best part? You don’t have to do anything to receive the increase—it’s applied automatically to your payment.
What Is the 2025 COLA Increase?
Each year, the Social Security Administration (SSA) adjusts payments based on inflation. This annual adjustment is called the Cost of Living Adjustment, or COLA. For 2025, the increase is 2.5%, which means your benefit will be a little higher than it was in 2024.
This change helps recipients maintain their buying power, especially important with the ongoing increases in everyday costs like groceries, housing, and utilities.
How Much Will You Get in 2025?
The amount of your monthly Social Security check depends on two things:
- Your lifetime earnings
- The age at which you retire
Here’s what you can expect based on your retirement age:
| Retirement Age | Estimated Monthly Payment (2025) |
|---|---|
| Age 62 | Around $2,831 |
| Age 67 | Up to $3,822 |
| Age 70 | As high as $5,108 |
This system is designed to encourage people to delay retirement for larger monthly benefits. The longer you wait—up to age 70—the higher your monthly check will be.
What About SSI in 2025?
If you receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI), your payment will also increase, though the amount depends on your income, disability status, and household size.
Here’s the maximum SSI benefit for 2025:
| Recipient Type | Maximum Monthly SSI Payment |
|---|---|
| Individual | Up to $967 |
| Couple | Up to $1,450 |
These payments are meant to help people with low income or disabilities meet basic living costs like food and housing.
No Need to Reapply—COLA Is Automatic
You do not need to apply for the 2.5% increase. The SSA automatically adjusts your payment if you’re already receiving Social Security or SSI benefits.
Whether you receive your money by direct deposit or by check in the mail, the adjusted amount will arrive on your usual payment date.
To receive your money faster and more securely, it’s always a good idea to sign up for direct deposit through your My Social Security account or by contacting the SSA.