Millions of Americans will see a 2.5% increase in their Social Security payments starting in 2025, thanks to the Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA). Although the higher payments won’t start until January 2025, retirees can already check their future benefit amounts. The Social Security Administration (SSA) will also send notices with updated payment details in December. Retirees can view these new amounts on their “my Social Security” account online.
Contents
- 1 Payments for Couples
- 2 Eligibility
- 3 January Payment Schedule
- 4 2025 Benefits
- 5 Planning Ahead
- 5.1 $1,450 SSI Payments Post-2025 COLA Increase – Verify Your Eligibility
- 5.2 FAQs
- 5.3 When will the 2025 COLA payments begin?
- 5.4 Social Security Maximum Benefit for Full Retirement Age Workers – Changes Following the 2025 COLA Increase
- 5.5 How much will couples receive in 2025 after COLA?
- 5.6 Can spousal benefits be claimed at age 62?
- 5.7 How do I check my 2025 Social Security payment amount?
- 5.8 What are the payment dates in January 2025?
Payments for Couples
As of January 2024, aged couples who both receive Social Security saw an average monthly benefit of $3,014, thanks to the previous year’s 3.2% COLA. With the 2025 COLA of 2.5%, the average payment will rise to about $3,089. While the increase is smaller compared to 2024, it still provides some financial relief to retirees amid inflation.
Eligibility
If both you and your spouse have worked at least 10 years and earned enough credits, you can start collecting Social Security benefits as early as age 62. Even if one spouse didn’t work or contributed less to Social Security, they might still qualify for spousal benefits. This option allows couples to maximize their total benefits, with one spouse receiving up to 50% of the other’s benefit.
January Payment Schedule
The COLA-adjusted benefits will begin rolling out on January 3, 2025. However, not everyone will receive their check on the same day. If you’ve been receiving Social Security benefits since before May 1997 or you’re also collecting Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you will receive your payment on January 3.
If you don’t qualify for the January 3 payment, your benefit will arrive on one of the following Wednesdays based on your birthdate:
- January 8: If you were born between the 1st and the 10th.
- January 15: If you were born between the 11th and the 20th.
- January 22: If you were born between the 21st and the 31st.
These staggered payment dates are part of the SSA’s effort to distribute benefits smoothly.
2025 Benefits
To find out exactly how much you will receive after the 2025 COLA increase, log into your “my Social Security” account. The SSA will also mail out official notices in December, but the online account offers a quicker way to access the information. Simply log in, navigate to the benefits section, and you can view your updated payment details.
Planning Ahead
While the 2025 COLA is smaller than the previous year’s 3.2% adjustment, it still helps retirees keep up with inflation. For many, Social Security is a key source of income, so staying updated on COLA changes and payment schedules is essential. By knowing when your payments are coming and how much you’ll receive, you can better plan your budget for the new year.
If you and your spouse qualify for the average $3,089 payment in 2025, it’s a good idea to factor this into your financial planning. Though Social Security is designed to help with living expenses, it may not cover all of your needs, so consider other sources of income or savings to supplement your retirement funds.
With the SSA making it easy to check your benefits online, there’s no need to wait until the paper notice arrives. You can plan ahead and start preparing your 2025 budget today.
Looking forward, understanding COLA and how it impacts your Social Security payments is key to maintaining financial stability in retirement. While the increases may seem small, they help ensure that benefits keep pace with inflation, allowing retirees to maintain their purchasing power.
FAQs
When will the 2025 COLA payments begin?
The first payments will start on January 3, 2025.
How much will couples receive in 2025 after COLA?
Aged couples will receive an average of $3,089 per month.
Can spousal benefits be claimed at age 62?
Yes, you can claim spousal benefits starting at age 62.
How do I check my 2025 Social Security payment amount?
You can check the updated amount on your “my Social Security” account.
What are the payment dates in January 2025?
Payments will be made on January 3, 8, 15, or 22, depending on your birthdate.