One of the major changes that the Social Security Administration (SSA) has announced for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients is the COLA or cost-of-living adjustment increase.
As of January 3, retirees will start receiving 2.5% extra from Social Security. However, SSI recipients will collect the COLA increase on December 31, 2024. So, 24 hours ahead of schedule. Since January 1, 2025, is a Federal holiday, recipients cannot receive the payment on that date because there could be delays.
New maximum amounts for SSI after the 2025 COLA increase
Currently, the maximum amounts are set for essential persons, individuals and married couples. They are $472, $943 and $1,415 respectively. After the COLA boost, they will become:
- $484 for essential persons
- $967 for individuals
- $1,450 for eligible married couples
If you do not receive the maximum amount, you could check your new amount through your my Social Security account. Those who receive $500 per month will receive $512.5 after the COLA increase. Those SSI recipients whose payment is worth $900 will get $922 after the boost. So, $2.5 extra for each $100 in benefits.
SSI student exclusion after the 2025 COLA increase
Through December 2024, the current SSI student exclusion limit per month for an individual is $2,290. After the 2025 COLA, this limit will become $2,350 per month. Thus, it will be $60 higher in 2025.
This annual SSI Student Exclusion limit will be $9,460, up from the current $9,230. Therefore, the annual limit will be $230 higher after the COLA boost. The third important change will be dealing with Social Security Disability Thresholds.
If you work while you are receiving disability benefits, you need to pay close attention to the Substantial Gainful Activity thresholds for 2025:
Non-Blind: $1,550/mo. = $1,620/mo. after COLA
Blind: $2,590/mo. = $2,700/mo after COLA.
Trial Work Period (TWP): $1,110/mo. = $1,160/mo. after COLA
Make sure you meet those income limits if you are receiving disability benefits and you start working again. Or else, your payment eligibility or amount will be affected.