Social Security is a critical support for millions of United States citizens who face disabilities and rely on monthly payments for their financial well-being. In 2025, two significant changes to disability benefits are anticipated that will impact many beneficiaries. These adjustments are set against a backdrop of rising inflation and the need to adapt to current economic conditions, making it essential for beneficiaries to be informed about what to expect in terms of their payments.
The changes, which are part of Social Security’s annual adjustments, are intended to help beneficiaries maintain their purchasing power in an environment of rising living costs. The following are the two most important changes that will be implemented in 2025.
The two changes to Disability checks in 2025
These changes make a big difference from previous years. Citizens who have a disability retirement check will enjoy a higher benefit.
- Increase in the maximum disability check. The first significant change is the increase in the maximum disability check. The maximum amount that beneficiaries can get each month is expected to increase, providing needed financial relief for those living with disabilities. By 2025, the maximum check could increase from $3,822 to approximately $3,917. This adjustment is crucial, as inflation has affected the cost of essential goods and services, causing many beneficiaries to need this increase to meet their basic needs.
- Increase in the average disability check. The second relevant change is the increase in the average disability check. In addition to the adjustment in the maximum check, the average amount that beneficiaries get is also expected to increase. Currently, the average monthly check is estimated to be approximately $1,920.48, and with the cost-of-living adjustment, this figure is expected to reach $1,968 by 2025. This increase is essential to help beneficiaries cope with the current economic realities and will allow them to maintain a more sustainable standard of living.
But citizens with a disability are not the only ones who can get the COLA 2025.
2025 COLA forecast for retirees without a Disability
For retired citizens who do not get disability benefits, the Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) in 2025 is also expected to have a significant impact. The COLA is projected to reach approximately 2.5%, which represents needed relief against a backdrop of persistent inflation. This increase is vital for retirees to cope with the rising cost of living, especially in essential categories such as food and housing.
In 2024, the average retirement check is around $1,900, and with the new adjustment, this amount is expected to increase by around $48, helping beneficiaries maintain their purchasing power. This increase is essential, as many retirees rely heavily on these payments to cover their daily expenses.
In addition, the Social Security COLA is calculated based on changes in the consumer price index, which means that beneficiaries must be mindful of economic fluctuations. The finalization of this adjustment and its implementation will be announced in October, providing clarity on how these changes will impact retirees’ financial situation in 2025.