The rising cost of living is a phenomenon that affects all citizens, especially those with a disability who rely on fixed or limited incomes. Among the most impacted are recipients of disability payments in the United States, who rely on their benefits to meet their daily needs. In response to this reality, the United States Government has implemented an annual adjustment to disability benefits, based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI), to help beneficiaries cope with the rising cost of goods and services.
This annual adjustment, known as the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), is intended to maintain the purchasing power of people with disabilities who rely on Social Security to survive. Beginning in 2024, beneficiaries will see an increase in their payments of nearly $100 per month, representing significant relief for those who rely on these funds to cover essential expenses such as housing, food, and medical care.
This increase comes at a critical time, as the cost of living has continued to rise, and households on fixed incomes have been struggling to maintain their financial stability. Below are the main features of this increase and the eligibility requirements for these benefits.
Increased disability benefits: almost $100 more per month
Beginning in January 2025, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients will see an increase of approximately $100 in their monthly payments, thanks to a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). This increase is calculated annually based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI-W), which reflects changes in the prices of basic goods and services.
By 2025, the COLA will be 2.5%, which is a more moderate increase compared to the previous year. For example, for an average SSDI recipient who currently receives about $1,700 per month, this adjustment will mean an increase of about $42. For those who get SSI, the maximum amount will increase from $943 to about $966 per individual.
This adjustment affects not only SSDI and SSI recipients, but also those who get other Social Security benefits, including retirees. In addition, it is important to note that the increase in disability benefits also influences other forms of financial assistance linked to these payments, such as food stamps and housing subsidies, which has a positive impact on beneficiaries’ overall finances.
Eligibility for a disability payment
To qualify for Social Security disability benefits, it is necessary to meet certain criteria established by the Social Security Administration (SSA). These criteria are strict to ensure that only people who are truly unable to work due to a qualifying medical condition get these benefits.
The first requirement is to have worked in a job covered by Social Security and to have accumulated sufficient work credits. Generally, at least 40 credits are needed, 20 of which must have been earned in the last 10 years before the disability occurred. The exact number of credits needed depends on the age of the applicant.
In addition, the applicant must have a disability that meets the SSA definition of ‘total disability’. This means that the person is unable to perform any substantial work because of their medical condition, and that this condition must have lasted, or be expected to last, at least 12 months or result in death. Some of the most common qualifying disabilities include serious illnesses such as cancer, heart disorders, neurological diseases and serious mental disorders.
The application process can be lengthy and complex, so it is critical to provide all necessary medical documentation to support the application. The SSA will assess both the applicant’s ability to work and the severity of their condition to determine if they qualify to get benefits. In some cases, applications are denied, but it is possible to appeal the decision or request a case review.