Social Security Disability Changes in 2025 By COLA – Check Increase Amount & Eligibility

If you are taking benefits under Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), then some important changes are going to happen for you in 2025. These changes are happening due to COLA (Cost-of-Living Adjustment), which is set every year to increase the payment according to inflation.

In this easy and detailed article, we will know how much will be the increase in SSDI payment in 2025, how much will be the new payment, who is eligible, how to apply, and what things are important to keep in mind.

💰 How much increase in SSDI payment in 2025 (COLA Increase)?

In 2025, there has been an increase of 2.5% under COLA. This means that people taking SSDI will now get an average of $50 more every month.

👉 What is COLA?

COLA i.e. Cost-of-Living Adjustment means that when inflation increases, the government also increases the benefits of Social Security accordingly. Its purpose is to maintain the purchasing power of the beneficiaries.

📈 Impact of changes in SSDI payment

• Category 2024 2025
• Average SSDI payment $1,450 $1,500
• Maximum SSDI payment $3,650 $3,735

Apart from this, a new amount of SSI (Supplemental Security Income) has also been fixed:

• For an individual: $959 per month
• For a couple: $1,441 per month
• This increased amount will be applicable from January 2025.

✅ Eligibility Criteria for SSDI in 2025

If you want to apply for SSDI, you must meet some conditions:

1. Work Credits:

• SSDI is available only if you have worked while paying taxes and have earned some work credits. Generally:
• You need 40 credits, of which 20 credits must have been earned in the last 10 years.
• You can earn a maximum of 4 credits in a year.

2. Medical Condition:

• Your illness or condition:
• Must be on the “Disability List” of the SSA (Social Security Administration).
• Must last at least 1 year or can lead to death.

3. Earnings Limit (SGA – Substantial Gainful Activity):

• If you are working, your monthly income must be less than these limits:
• For non-blind person: $1,620 per month
• For blind person: $2,700 per month
• If your earnings exceed these limits, you will not be eligible for SSDI.

📝 How to apply for SSDI changes?

If you think you are eligible for SSDI, follow these steps:
Prepare the necessary documents:
Gather medical reports, work history, identity card, etc.

Fill out the application:

Apply online on the SSA website, or you can apply by phone or by visiting the local SSA office.

Wait for processing:

It may take several months for the application to be processed, so make sure you provide all the information correctly to avoid delays.

🗓️ Payment schedule and important dates

• December 31, 2024: SSI recipients will receive the increased amount.
• January 2025: SSDI recipients will receive a payment with the COLA increase.
• The payment date is determined by your date of birth. Check the payment schedule on the SSA website for the exact date.

⚠️ Common mistakes you should avoid:

Giving incorrect information: Fill in the form with the same information that is in your government records.
Incomplete documents: Provide complete medical and work data.
Not reporting changes: If there is a change in your income, property or place of residence, tell SSA immediately—or else you may face problems later

FAQs