The Supplemental Security Income is one of the most important benefits in the United States Social Security monthly payments. The year 2025 will bring a pleasant surprise for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients in the United States, with a notable increase in monthly payments. This increase comes on the back of the Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA), a critical tool that adjusts benefits for annual inflation. For seniors and people with disabilities, this increase will provide further financial relief, helping to cover basic expenses such as food, rent and other essential services.
SSI, intended to financially support those with limited resources, is adjusted each year so that recipients do not lose purchasing power due to inflation. In this sense, the increase for 2025 is good news that not only maintains the value of the payments, but also provides a cushion against cost-of-living increases that affect millions of people in the country.
Not only will SSI recipients get this adjustment in 2025, but they will also be able to count on other supports that in some states are in addition to federal payments, making the change in their income even more significant.
How much will SSI recipients get each month?
Thanks to the 2.5% COLA, monthly SSI payments will increase substantially. In 2024, the maximum monthly check for an individual recipient is $943; in 2025, that number will increase to $967. For their part, couples who get SSI will see an increase from $1,415 to $1,450 per month.
This table provides a clear summary of the changes:
| Category | SSI Payment 2024 | SSI Payment 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Individual (Maximum) | $943 per month | $967 per month |
| Couple (Maximum) | $1,415 per month | $1,450 per month |
Also, note that some states offer additional supplements to the federal SSI payment. Therefore, recipients living in these states could see an even larger increase in their monthly income.
Also remember that it is possible to combine the Supplemental Security Income payment with Social Security benefits, making it possible for a single beneficiary to get a little more money each month.
How to Maximize SSI Payments
Although increases are automatic each year, it is possible to take steps to maximize SSI benefits and ensure that you are getting the highest amount possible. Also, remember that Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments depend on the recipient’s income.
In this sense, the lower your income, the higher your SSI payment will be. But we should also keep in mind that there are other additional payments that we may get as an SSI recipient:
- Check state supplements: Many states offer additional payments to SSI, which could raise your monthly check even higher. Reviewing local regulations is key to identifying whether you have access to these supplements.
- Consider your living situation: Recipients who share housing with others may see a reduction in their payments due to what Social Security calls “in-kind support.” This includes non-cash help such as room and board, which can impact the monthly amount you get.
- Access other benefits: Many SSI recipients also qualify for programs such as Medicaid, which can cover medical expenses that would otherwise be difficult to afford on SSI income.
With the increase expected in 2025, now is a good time for recipients to review their options and make sure they are taking full advantage of all available benefits.Still, being able to apply for SSI is always a relief, so we should check to see if we are eligible for it.