SRS: Social Security announces COLA for 2025

The Social Security Administration has announced an annual cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for 2025 of 2.5 percent. According to the SSA, the 2.5 percent increase will translate to an additional $49 for the average retiree, increasing the average monthly check from $1,927 to $1,976. Married couples will see an average increase of $75, raising their monthly benefit to $3,089 up from $3,014.

Although the 2.5 percent COLA is lower than the 3.2 percent in 2024, it isn’t far from the historical average. The COLA has averaged about 2.6 percent over the past 20 years. It went as low as 0 percent in 2010 and 2011 after the housing crisis and as high as 8.7 percent in 2023 when inflation spiked after COVID disruptions.

While notices will be sent out towards the end of the year, starting in early December, you can view and save your Social Security COLA notice online via the Message Center inside my Social Security website.

Note: The Senior Resource Services (SRS) office hours for drop-in assistance are Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10 a.m. to noon. The SRS office is in the Cribari Center across from the Post Office. You may also leave a message at 408-239-5253 or e-mail SRS at villagessrs@sbcglobal.net. The purpose of SRS is to provide education and general business and financial information. All assistance is free and confidential. You should ask your professional advisor about your individual situation.