Millions of Americans are set to receive a 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) in 2025, boosting their Social Security benefits starting in January. While the increase won’t take effect until the new year, retirees can already check their future benefit amounts. The Social Security Administration (SSA) will send official notices about these changes in December, but recipients can also view their updated benefits through their my Social Security accounts.
Here’s what you need to know about the 2025 COLA, how it impacts couples receiving Social Security, and when the increased payments will be issued.
Couples Receiving
For couples who are both receiving Social Security benefits, the 2025 COLA brings a welcome increase. As of January 2024, the average monthly payment for aged couples receiving Social Security was $3,014. After the 2024 COLA increase of 3.2%, this amount saw a moderate boost.
With the newly announced 2.5% COLA for 2025, these couples will see their average payments rise to approximately $3,089 per month. Although the 2025 increase is slightly lower than in 2024, it still provides additional financial support to help retirees keep up with rising living costs.
Social Security as a Couple
Couples who have both worked for at least ten years and earned sufficient work credits are eligible to file for Social Security benefits as early as age 62. Additionally, some spouses may be eligible for spousal benefits, allowing them to receive benefits based on their partner’s earnings record.
If you’re planning for retirement, it’s important to consider both partners’ eligibility to maximize your household’s Social Security income.
COLA Payments Start
The SSA has confirmed that retirement benefits, including the 2.5% COLA increase, will begin being distributed from January 3, 2025. However, not all recipients will receive their payments on this date, as the payment schedule depends on when you started receiving benefits and your birth date.
Payment Eligibility
You will receive your first COLA-adjusted payment on January 3, 2025, if:
- You began receiving Social Security benefits before May 1997.
- You are collecting both Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
- You do not qualify for any other retirement benefits in January.
- You have followed all SSA rules without interruptions.
For those who are not eligible for the January 3 payment, there will be three additional payment dates in January, based on your birth date:
| Payment Date | Eligibility |
|---|---|
| January 8, 2025 | Recipients born from the 1st to the 10th of any month |
| January 15, 2025 | Recipients born from the 11th to the 20th |
| January 22, 2025 | Recipients born from the 21st to the 31st |
These Wednesday payment dates ensure that all Social Security beneficiaries receive their updated benefits within the first month of the year.
Updated Benefits
While the SSA will send official notifications of your updated benefits in December 2024, you don’t have to wait until then to see your future payment amounts. By logging into your my Social Security account, you can preview your adjusted benefits and plan your finances accordingly. This is especially helpful for those wanting to understand how the COLA increase will impact their household’s income in 2025.
COLA Mean for Retirees
The 2025 COLA adjustment is designed to help retirees keep up with inflation and other rising costs. Although the increase is slightly lower than last year’s, it still represents a meaningful boost in monthly payments. With food, housing, and healthcare costs continuing to climb, these adjustments are crucial for helping retirees maintain their standard of living.
For couples, the average monthly increase to $3,089 can provide added financial security, particularly for those heavily reliant on Social Security benefits. However, it’s important to note that each couple’s actual benefit may differ depending on work history, earnings, and filing decisions.
Key Takeaways
As you prepare for 2025, be sure to check your my Social Security account for details on your updated benefits, and keep an eye out for the official COLA notice from the SSA in December. With payments beginning in January, you’ll want to plan your finances around these new amounts to ensure a smooth transition into the new year.
FAQs
How much is the 2025 Social Security COLA increase?
The 2025 COLA increase is 2.5%, boosting benefits for millions of Americans starting in January 2025.
When will I receive my 2025 COLA-adjusted Social Security payment?
If you started receiving benefits before May 1997 or receive SSI, you’ll get your payment on January 3. Otherwise, payments will be distributed on January 8, 15, or 22 based on your birth date.
How much will couples receive after the 2025 COLA?
Couples who both receive Social Security benefits will see their average monthly payment rise to about $3,089 in 2025.
Can I check my updated benefits before January 2025?
Yes, you can log into your my Social Security account to view your future benefit amounts after the COLA increase.
What if I don’t receive my COLA notice in December?
If you don’t receive the notice by mail, you can always check your updated benefits online or contact the SSA for assistance.
