For millions of Americans relying on Social Security Disability benefits, the holiday season brings both relief and anticipation. With rising living costs, many are eager to see the 2025 Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) reflected in their December payments. However, if you’re expecting a bump in your Disability check before Christmas, here’s why that won’t be the case—and what you can expect instead.
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The December 24 Disability Payment: What to Expect
The final Disability payment for 2024 is scheduled for Monday, December 24. This check will follow the current year’s payment cycle and will not include the 2025 COLA adjustment.
Why Isn’t the COLA Included?
- Timing of Adjustments:
The 2.5% COLA increase applies to 2025 payments only. December’s check still falls under the 2024 payment schedule and reflects calculations based on earnings and work history for that year. - Holiday Adjustments:
Since December 24 is close to Christmas, the payment is being advanced to ensure beneficiaries receive their funds on time. However, this early deposit doesn’t impact the COLA schedule.
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What About SSI Payments?
If you’re receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI), there’s good news:
- Due to a calendar irregularity, the first January 2025 SSI payment will be issued on December 31, 2024.
- This early payment will include the 2025 COLA adjustment, meaning SSI beneficiaries will see the 2.5% increase before the new year.
Understanding the 2025 COLA Adjustment
The COLA increase is designed to account for rising inflation and ensure that Social Security benefits maintain their purchasing power.
- For 2025, a 2.5% COLA increase will apply to all Social Security benefits, including Disability, Retirement, and SSI.
- The new rates will be reflected starting in January 2025 payments for most beneficiaries.
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Who Gets the December 24 Payment?
The December 24 check is intended for Group 4 beneficiaries:
- Those whose birthdays fall between the 21st and 31st of the month.
- Beneficiaries who started receiving their payments after May 1997.
When Will the 2025 COLA Be Reflected?
The first checks reflecting the 2.5% COLA increase will be deposited in January 2025. Payment dates depend on your assigned group:
- Group 1: Birthdays from the 1st to the 10th of the month (paid on the 2nd Wednesday of January).
- Group 2: Birthdays from the 11th to the 20th of the month (paid on the 3rd Wednesday of January).
- Group 3: Birthdays from the 21st to the 31st of the month (paid on the 4th Wednesday of January).
Why This Matters for Beneficiaries
The December 24 payment ensures that recipients have access to their funds ahead of the holidays. While it doesn’t include the 2025 COLA adjustment, it marks the end of the 2024 payment cycle, allowing beneficiaries to plan for the festive season without delays.
What You Can Do Now
To make the most of your Disability benefits during this period:
- Budget Accordingly: Account for holiday expenses based on your current payment amounts.
- Prepare for January: Expect your increased benefits to kick in next month.
- Monitor Payment Schedules: Keep track of SSI and Social Security calendars for early or adjusted payment dates.
While the December 24 Disability payment won’t reflect the 2025 COLA, recipients can take comfort in knowing that the new year will bring increased benefits. For those relying on SSI, the 2.5% adjustment will arrive a little earlier, on December 31.
As we usher in 2025, these adjustments will provide millions of Americans with much-needed financial relief to face the rising cost of living. Stay informed, plan wisely, and enjoy a stress-free holiday season!
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