The 2025 Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) brings a 2.5% increase in Social Security benefits, including those who receive SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) and SSI (Supplemental Security Income). While this is good news for most, there has been some confusion online about who qualifies for this boost and whether some disability recipients will miss out.
What Is COLA and Why Is It Important?
The Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) is a yearly increase in Social Security benefits to keep up with inflation. The Social Security Administration (SSA) calculates it using the Consumer Price Index (CPI-W). As everyday expenses rise, COLA ensures that people who rely on fixed benefits, like SSDI and SSI, don’t lose their buying power.
In 2025, the COLA is 2.5%, which is much lower than the 8.7% boost in 2024, reflecting slower inflation this year.
Will SSDI and SSI Recipients Get the 2025 COLA?
Yes, most disability recipients will get the 2.5% COLA increase. This includes:
- People receiving SSDI, based on their work history and disability
- People getting SSI, which is a need-based program for those with limited income and resources
So Why Are Some People Saying There’s No Increase?
Some confusion comes from misunderstandings online or from cases where people don’t see the full increase because of other issues, like:
- Garnishments for unpaid debts
- Overpayment recovery by SSA
- Medicare premium increases for SSDI recipients
These factors may reduce the net payment, making it look like the COLA didn’t happen — but it did.
How Much Will Benefits Increase?
Here’s a quick look at how the 2.5% increase affects payments:
SSDI:
- Average monthly payment goes from $1,542 to $1,580
SSI (individual maximum):
- Federal monthly benefit increases from $943 to $967
SSI (couples):
- Increases from $1,415 to $1,450
Extra assistance for those with care aides: Some SSI recipients may qualify for an additional $484, if they rely on daily personal care and have a registered home aide.
Who Might Not See the Full COLA Increase?
Even though most people qualify, a few groups might see a smaller actual increase:
1. Garnishments
If you owe child support, student loans, or federal taxes, the government can take part of your benefits before you get them. This can reduce the visible boost from COLA.
2. Overpayments
If the SSA says they’ve overpaid you in the past, they may withhold part of your monthly benefit until the overpayment is repaid.
3. Medicare Premiums
SSDI recipients on Medicare may see a higher Part B premium in 2025, which is automatically deducted from their checks. That might cancel out some of the COLA increase.
How to Prepare for the 2025 COLA Changes
Getting ready for the change means more than checking your bank account. Here’s what you should do:
1. Check Your Benefits
- Log in to your My Social Security account at ssa.gov
- Look at your benefit statement for COLA details and monthly totals
2. Know Your Deductions
- Are you paying off a past overpayment?
- Do you owe other debts that might reduce your check?
- Are you enrolled in Medicare, and if so, how much is your premium?
3. Budget for the Year
Plan ahead with the 2.5% increase in mind, but also account for rising prices and possible Medicare changes. A simple monthly budget can help you stay in control.
4. Ask for Help If Needed
- Call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 if something seems wrong
- Contact a disability rights group or legal advisor if you think your benefits are being unfairly reduced
- If you’re struggling, look into state assistance programs or food and housing support in your area