The Social Security Administration (SSA) officially announced a 2.5% cost‑of‑living adjustment for 2025, not 3.2% as stated in your text. This increase applies to Social Security retirement benefits and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments beginning in January 2025 and affects more than 72 million beneficiaries. On average, the boost adds about $50 per month to retirement benefits.
The SSA ties the annual COLA to the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI‑W), which reflects inflation. When inflation rises, COLA helps ensure monthly benefits keep pace so the purchasing power of beneficiaries isn’t eroded. Notices explaining the exact amount each person will receive are generally sent by mail or available online in early December.
Like all annual Social Security COLAs, the 2025 increase is automatic. Recipients do not need to apply or take any action to receive it — the SSA adjusts benefits directly. This avoids administrative burdens, which can be especially important for older adults and those with disabilities.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients also receive the same COLA percentage. While the 2.5% adjustment may seem modest, it can meaningfully affect those living on very limited incomes, helping cover essential costs like housing, food, healthcare, and utilities.
Even with the increase, many beneficiaries remain concerned that cost‑of‑living adjustments do not fully match the ongoing rise in healthcare, housing, and long‑term care costs. Advocacy groups like AARP have highlighted that Social Security remains a key source of income for millions, and continued pressure exists to protect and strengthen COLA and overall benefit levels.
For context, the SSA has since announced the 2026 COLA at 2.8%, which will take effect in January 2026 and increases average benefits by roughly $56 per month. This 2.8% adjustment reflects ongoing inflation trends and impacts approximately 75 million beneficiaries.
