Officially, the SSA declared that eligible couples will soon see the increase of their maximum payment, which can be as much as $1,450 while getting SSI.
This raises will have a 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment, or COLA, for 2025, even though the supplement payment happens before year-end.
Since January 1, 2025, is the holiday, these payments will be made on December 29, 2024 per the SSA’s payment calendar.
Below shows what this will mean to various beneficiary groups more specifically:
| Beneficiary Category | Monthly Check (Current) | Monthly Check (2025 with COLA) | Increase Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Benefits | $698 | $715 | $17 |
| Individuals | $943 | $967 | $24 |
| Couples | $1,415 | $1,450 | $35 |
| Essential Persons | $472 | $484 | $12 |
What to Do If Payments Are Delayed?
If your SSI check or direct deposit does not arrive on time, the SSA recommends waiting at least three mailing days before contacting them.
More often than not, problems with payments stem from your own bank instead of the agency. Using the My Social Security Account, claimants can also view financial statements, check payment due dates and request more information regarding their benefit entitlements.
Eligibility Requirements for SSI Benefits
The SSA has particular eligibility criteria that one must fulfill to qualify for SSI payments. The program seeks to support those who are elderly or disabled, with minimal income as well as resources. Key eligibility requirements include the following:
- Minimal or no financial resources
- Low or no income
- Aged 65 years or older, blind, or a qualified disability.
For 2024, the maximum benefit amounts will be as follows:
- Individuals: $943 a month
- Couples: $1,415 per month.
One thing to consider is that the SSDI, commonly referred to as disability benefits, requires a work history to qualify. SSI, however, doesn’t have a requirement for any job history as individuals are only qualified based on budgetary requirements and a specific set of criteria.
New, Streamlined SSI Application Process
A faster process to apply for SSI benefits has been unveiled by the SSA, targeting the reduction of complexity for applicants and adjudicators alike. This new online tool is called i Claim and will present more streamlined questions, thus hastening the process for qualified individuals.
- Phase One (2024): This is only for first-time applicants aged 18-65, who have never been married and are applying for SSI as well as Social Security benefits.
- Phase Two (2025): Should extend the reach of the system to more applicants.
While this new streamlined system is touted to be efficient, not all users will have full access at the beginning of its implementation phase.
Key Differences Between SSDI and SSI Benefits
The SSA offers Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), both of which offer benefits. However, there are huge differences between the two programs in their eligibility and benefits:
| Feature | SSI | SSDI |
|---|---|---|
| Eligibility Criteria | Age, disability, and limited income/resources | Disability and work credits |
| Health Benefits | Medicaid (in most states) | Medicare (after 24 months of benefits) |
| Funding Source | Federal income taxes | Social Security payroll taxes |
| Work History Requirement | Not required | Required |
FAQs:
When is the $1,450 Social Security payment date?
The exact payment date varies; it’s based on your birth date and the SSA payment schedule.
Who is eligible for the $1,450 Social Security payment?
Retirees already receiving Social Security benefits may qualify if eligible for this amount.
How is the COLA related to the $1,450 payment?
The $1,450 may include COLA increases, reflecting inflation adjustments for 2024.
What factors determine Social Security benefit amounts?
Benefits depend on your earnings history, retirement age, and applicable COLA increases.