Millions of low-income Americans benefit from the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program, a federal assistance initiative managed by the Social Security Administration (SSA). Starting at the end of 2024, SSI recipients will see an increase in their benefits thanks to the 2025 Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA). This 2.5% boost will offer additional support to eligible beneficiaries through monthly direct deposits or checks.
For most SSI recipients, the increased payment will arrive on December 31, 2024, as January 1 is a federal holiday. As a result, SSI recipients will receive their payment early, making them the first to benefit from the 2025 COLA increase.
2025 SSI Payment Schedule
Typically, SSI payments are made on the first of each month. However, when the first falls on a weekend or federal holiday, the payment is issued on the prior business day. Below is the full schedule for 2025:
| Month | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| January | December 31, 2024 |
| February | January 31, 2025 |
| March | February 28, 2025 |
| April | April 1, 2025 |
| May | May 1, 2025 |
| June | May 30, 2025 |
| July | July 1, 2025 |
| August | August 1, 2025 |
| September | August 29, 2025 |
| October | October 1, 2025 |
| November | October 31, 2025 |
| December | December 1, 2025 |
SSI Payment Amounts
After the 2.5% COLA adjustment, SSI benefits will rise to the following maximum amounts for different recipient categories:
- Essential Person: Up to $484
- Individual: Up to $967 (up from $943)
- Married Couple: Up to $1,450 (up from $1,415)
Recipients who do not qualify for the maximum benefit can estimate their increased amount by adding $2.50 for every $100 they currently receive. For example, if someone currently receives $500, they should add $12.50, bringing the total to $512.50.
Eligibility Requirements for SSI
SSI is designed to assist Americans facing financial challenges, particularly those with low income and minimal resources. To qualify for SSI in 2025, applicants must meet specific criteria, beyond financial need, which include:
- Age: Individuals aged 65 or older
- Disability: Adults or children with qualifying disabilities
- Blindness: Individuals who are legally blind
Applicants must be U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, or certain non-citizens who meet DHS-approved eligibility classifications. Residency is also essential, with eligibility limited to individuals residing in one of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, or the Northern Mariana Islands.
Other conditions apply:
- Extended Absence: An absence of 30 consecutive days or more from eligible locations disqualifies an individual.
- Incarceration: Individuals confined to prisons, jails, or similar institutions are ineligible for payments.
- Income Limits: Recipients may receive other benefits, such as SSDI or retirement, but must stay within SSI’s income and asset limits.
Applying for SSI
Applying for SSI requires meeting the program’s financial and residency requirements and permitting the SSA to access financial records. Ensuring all criteria are met and filing appropriate paperwork will expedite the application process.
Overall, the 2025 COLA increase offers vital support to SSI recipients, helping them better cope with everyday costs. Knowing the updated payment dates and eligibility criteria can help recipients and applicants make the most of these benefits.
FAQs
When will SSI beneficiaries receive the 2025 COLA increase?
SSI beneficiaries will receive the 2025 COLA increase on December 31, 2024.
What is the new maximum SSI payment for individuals?
The maximum SSI payment for individuals will be $967 after the COLA increase.
Who qualifies for SSI benefits?
SSI benefits are available to low-income seniors, blind, or disabled Americans.
Can non-citizens apply for SSI?
Some non-citizens can apply if they meet DHS eligibility criteria.
Will SSI payments be affected if I leave the U.S. temporarily?
Yes, extended absence from the U.S. can disqualify you from receiving SSI.
