Starting April 9, retirees across the U.S. began seeing larger Social Security checks, thanks to the 2025 Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA). This year’s boost is a 2.5% increase, aimed at helping beneficiaries stay ahead of rising prices.
If you’re receiving Social Security, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), or planning to retire soon, here’s everything you need to know about what changed, how much you might receive, and what to expect next.
Increase
The 2025 COLA increase was officially applied in January, but the actual adjusted payments began rolling out on April 9. This 2.5% raise is automatic—you don’t need to do anything to receive it. The goal is simple: help retirees and others receiving benefits keep up with inflation and the rising cost of essentials.
This increase may not sound like much, but for someone receiving $2,000 a month, a 2.5% raise means an extra $50 each month, or $600 more a year.
Payments
Your payment amount depends on two main factors:
- Lifetime earnings
- Age when you start collecting benefits
Here’s a look at average monthly payments in 2025 based on retirement age:
| Retirement Age | Average/Max Monthly Benefit |
|---|---|
| 62 (early) | Avg: $2,831 |
| 67 (full) | Up to: $3,822 |
| 70 (delayed) | Max: $5,108 |
Delaying retirement boosts your monthly benefit, and this system is designed to encourage people to work longer if they can, while keeping Social Security sustainable long term.
SSI
For those receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI)—often individuals with disabilities or very low income—benefits have also increased for 2025.
Here’s what SSI recipients can expect this year:
| Recipient Type | Max Monthly Benefit (2025) |
|---|---|
| Individual | $967 |
| Couple | $1,450 |
However, the exact amount can vary based on:
- Household income
- Living arrangements
- Type of disability
Some may get less than the maximum, while others may qualify for additional state supplements, depending on where they live.
Timing
The Social Security Administration (SSA) sends out payments based on your birth date:
- 1st–10th: Paid on the second Wednesday of the month
- 11th–20th: Paid on the third Wednesday
- 21st–31st: Paid on the fourth Wednesday
If you started receiving benefits before May 1997, your payments are sent on the 3rd of each month, regardless of your birthday.
So if your first 2025 adjusted payment arrived on April 9, your birthday likely falls within the first 10 days of the month.
Automatic
The best part? You don’t need to apply for this increase. COLA adjustments are automatically calculated and applied by SSA. Your payment notice should show the breakdown of your new benefit amount, including any deductions for Medicare or taxes, if applicable.
If you’re unsure of the amount you should be getting, log in to your My Social Security account to view your updated benefit letter and payment history.
FAQs
When did 2025 COLA payments start?
Payments with the 2.5% COLA started on April 9.
Do I need to apply for the COLA increase?
No, the increase is applied automatically.
How much is the max Social Security at 70?
You could get up to $5,108 monthly if you retire at 70.
What is the SSI max for a single person?
In 2025, it’s $967 per month.
How does the SSA decide payment dates?
Payment dates are based on your birth date.
