Social Security Announces First Payment Date for Retirees with New Check Increase – It’s Official

Based on the cost of living adjustment, the SSA is going to officially confirm an increase in benefits for over 70 million beneficiaries in 2025. The Bureau of Labor Statistics is expected to announce the final COLA rate in October, and it is projected that this increase will go into effect in the month of January 2025.

Due to growing inflation and living expenses, the social security increase is expected to give retirees, disabled workers, and other beneficiaries financial relief. Beneficiaries should expect a slight increase in their monthly payments as a result of the COLA adjustment.

Social Security Announces First Payment for 2025

Although the exact COLA percentage for 2025 is not yet official, estimates from the Senior Citizens League show a potential 2.5% increase. In order to ensure that recipients maintain their purchasing power, this adjustment was designed to help offset inflation.

The COLA will apply to both Retirement, Survivor, and Disability Insurance (RSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) beneficiaries, with the first payments showing the increase scheduled for late December 2024.

Social Security First Payment Details

SSA checks are issued according to a specified schedule that takes into account a number of variables, such as date of birth, type of benefit, and eligibility. Because January 1st is a federal holiday, the first payment for SSI beneficiaries displaying the COLA increase will be made on December 31, 2024.

Checks for other beneficiaries will be sent out on specific Wednesdays in January, based on their date of birth and the time they filed for benefits.

Social Security Increase and Benefit Adjustments

  • The average monthly retirement benefit of $1,900 will increase to about $1,948, an additional $48 per month, assuming a 2.5% COLA.
  • Payments to retirees who filed at age 62 could increase by $68, and those who file at full retirement age (67) will receive an extra $96.
  • The highest benefit recipients, retirees at age 70, are expected to see a $122 increase in their monthly payments.
  • The increase for recipients of disability benefits is going to vary according to their particular circumstances, but on average, payments will increase by $38 to $96.

Social Security Payment Distribution by Date

For 2025, the SSA has provided a detailed payment schedule. Those who qualify for RSDI and SSI benefits will begin receiving their payments as early as December 31, with additional payments scheduled for specific Wednesdays in January based on beneficiaries birthdates.

CategoryPayment DateBirthdates
Initial PaymentDecember 31, 2024SSI beneficiaries
1st Payment GroupJanuary 8, 2025Born 1st – 10th
2nd Payment GroupJanuary 12, 2025Born 11th – 20th
3rd Payment GroupJanuary 22, 2025Born 21st – 31st

Impact of COLA on Social Security Benefits

  • Depending on the kind of benefit, different effects will ultimately result from the COLA increase.
  • The monthly benefits checks for blind beneficiaries, disabled workers, and retirees will all increase, giving them more financial support.
  • For example, there will be a $96 increase in the maximum disability benefit and a $35 increase in Supplemental Security Income for couples.
  • However the expected increase is slightly low, the COLA adjustment aims to make sure that the benefits maintain up with inflation, helping beneficiaries manage higher expenses in 2025.

FAQs

Is there a limit to how much my benefits can increase?

There is no set limit, the COLA increase depends on inflation and can vary from year to year.

Will my spouse’s benefits increase too?

Yes, if your spouse is receiving Social Security, their benefits will also go up with the COLA adjustment.

Will the COLA affect both Retirement and Disability benefits?

Yes, the COLA will affect both Retirement, Survivor, and Disability Insurance (RSDI) as well as Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

Leave a Comment