Social Security Raise for 2025: Millions of Social Security beneficiaries are set to receive a 2.5% raise in their monthly benefits in 2025. This cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) helps retirees manage inflation by maintaining purchasing power. Learn when you’ll receive your Social Security raise and how much extra you’ll get in your monthly check.

When Will You See the 2025 Social Security Raise?

The Social Security Administration (SSA) announced the 2025 COLA increase in October, but the higher payments won’t kick in until January 2025. Here’s when you can expect to see your larger benefit check based on your birthdate:

• Born 1st-10th of the month: First payment arrives on January 8, 2025.
• Born 11th-20th of the month: First payment on January 15, 2025.
• Born 21st-31st of the month: First payment on January 22, 2025.

If you began receiving benefits before May 1997 or get Supplemental Security Income (SSI), expect your increased payment on January 3, 2025.

How Much More Will You Receive?

The 2.5% COLA raise will boost the average retiree’s monthly benefit by about $49, increasing the average payment from $1,920 to approximately $1,968. Here’s a breakdown of increases for other benefit categories:

• Spouses of retired workers: Payments will rise from $909.78 to $932.52.
• Nondisabled widows and widowers: Payments will increase from $1,784.56 to $1,829.17.

Why the 2025 COLA May Not Be Enough

Although the 2.5% raise offers some relief, it might not fully cover rising expenses. Key costs like housing and healthcare are expected to increase faster than the COLA adjustment. Additionally, Medicare Part B premiums are projected to jump by 5.9% in 2025, further diminishing the impact of your raise.

Tips to Maximize Your Social Security Raise

Here are a few strategies to make the most of your 2025 Social Security increase:

• Check your benefits online: Log in to your mySocialSecurity account to view your personalized COLA-adjusted benefit.
• Plan for Medicare costs: Factor in potential increases in Medicare premiums.
• Explore additional income options: Consider part-time work, downsizing, or moving to a more affordable location if your raise doesn’t cover your needs.

Stay Informed About Future Updates

Keep an eye out for official notices from the SSA. The SSA will send detailed information about your benefit increase by mail in December 2024, or you can check your account online. For the latest updates, visit the Social Security Administration’s website.