SSI Payments to Rise $3,264 in 2025: In 2025, there will be a big boost for the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program due to the yearly Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA). This change helps those receiving SSI to cope with rising prices and keep their spending ability. For many Americans depending on SSI, this boost could add up to an extra $3,264 each year for those who qualify. Let’s take a closer look at what this increase means, who is eligible, and how to find out if you qualify.
What Is Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA) that provides monthly payments to individuals with limited income and resources. The program primarily supports older adults, people with disabilities, and blind individuals who meet specific financial criteria. SSI benefits are designed to help recipients cover basic needs such as food, clothing, and shelter.
Unlike Social Security retirement or disability benefits, which are based on work history and payroll contributions, SSI is funded through general tax revenues. This means that even individuals without a substantial work history may qualify for assistance if they meet the program’s strict income and resource limits.
How Much Will SSI Payments Increase in 2025?
In 2025, SSI payments will rise due to a 2.5% COLA increase announced by the Social Security Administration. This adjustment reflects changes in the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W), which measures inflation.
For eligible individuals receiving the maximum federal benefit amount:
- Monthly payments will increase from $943 in 2024 to $967 in 2025, resulting in an annual boost of $288.
- Over the course of the year, this totals an additional $3,264 for those receiving maximum benefits.
For couples where both partners are eligible for SSI:
- The maximum monthly payment will rise from $1,415 in 2024 to $1,450 in 2025, translating into an annual increase of $420.
Additionally, essential persons—individuals who live with someone receiving SSI and provide necessary care—will see their monthly benefit rise from $472 to $484.
Who Qualifies for SSI Benefits?
To qualify for SSI benefits in 2025 or beyond, applicants must meet specific eligibility requirements related to age or disability status as well as financial need:
- Age or Disability Requirements:
- Be aged 65 or older.
- Be blind or have a qualifying disability that significantly limits your ability to work.
- Income Limits:
- Your countable income must fall below certain thresholds set by the SSA. Countable income includes wages earned from work as well as other sources like pensions or Social Security benefits.
- Some types of income—such as food stamps or small gifts—are excluded when calculating eligibility.
- Resource Limits:
- Individuals must have resources valued at no more than $2,000 ($3,000 for couples). Resources include cash savings and assets like stocks or bonds but exclude personal belongings such as your home or car under certain conditions.
- U.S. Residency:
- Applicants must reside within one of the 50 states, Washington D.C., or the Northern Mariana Islands.
- Non-citizens may also qualify if they meet specific immigration criteria outlined by SSA regulations.
How Are Payments Calculated?
The exact payment amount you receive depends on several factors:
- The federal benefit rate (FBR), which sets the maximum monthly payment amount.
- Any countable income you earn; your monthly benefit is reduced dollar-for-dollar after excluding certain amounts of earned/unearned income.
- State supplements: Some states provide additional payments on top of federal SSI benefits.
For example: If you qualify for the maximum individual benefit of $967 but earn countable income of $200 per month, your adjusted payment would be reduced accordingly:
(967 − 200 = $767).
2025 Retirement Boost: $967 Extra Monthly for Seniors
How Can You Apply for SSI Benefits?
If you believe you qualify for SSI benefits based on age, disability status, and financial need—or if you’re already receiving payments but want to confirm your new benefit amount—you can take these steps:
- Visit www.ssa.gov/ssi to learn more about eligibility requirements.
- Create a “my Social Security” account online at www.ssa.gov/myaccount to view personalized information about your benefits.
- Call SSA directly at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778) between Monday-Friday from 8:00 AM–7:00 PM EST.
- Schedule an appointment at your local Social Security office if you prefer face-to-face assistance with your application process.