As we step into 2025, there’s good news for Social Security beneficiaries: a 2.5% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) has been applied to monthly benefits. This adjustment aims to help recipients keep pace with inflation and the rising costs of living. But when exactly will you see this increase in your Social Security check? Let’s dive in!
Understanding the 2025 COLA Increase
The 2.5% COLA means that Social Security benefits will see a modest boost starting in January 2025. For the average retired worker, this translates to an increase of approximately $49 per month, raising the average benefit from $1,927 to $1,976.
When Will You Receive Your Increased Payment?
The timing of your Social Security payment depends on your birth date:
- Birthdays between the 1st and 10th: Payments are disbursed on the second Wednesday of each month.
- Birthdays between the 11th and 20th: Payments are made on the third Wednesday of each month.
- Birthdays between the 21st and 31st: Payments are issued on the fourth Wednesday of each month.
For January 2025, the payment dates are as follows:
| Second Wednesday | January 8, 2025 |
| Third Wednesday | January 15, 2025 |
| Fourth Wednesday | January 22, 2025 |
If you’ve been receiving benefits since before May 1997, your payment date remains the 3rd of each month.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Recipients
For those receiving SSI benefits, payments are typically made on the 1st of each month. However, when the 1st falls on a weekend or federal holiday, payments are made on the previous business day. In January 2025, since January 1st is a federal holiday, SSI payments were disbursed on December 31, 2024.
Planning Ahead
With the COLA increase, it’s a great time to review your finances and adjust your budget accordingly. While the 2.5% boost helps offset inflation, it’s essential to stay informed about any future changes to Social Security benefits. For the most accurate and personalized information, consider checking your “My Social Security” account online or contacting the Social Security Administration directly.
Stay Informed
Keeping up with changes to Social Security ensures you make the most of your benefits. Stay connected with official communications from the Social Security Administration and consult their website for updates.
