$5,700 Boost Coming to Social Security, SSI and SSDI Payments – Who Qualifies for This Increase?

Millions of Americans rely on Social Security, SSI, and SSDI to cover their monthly essentials—and even small updates can have a big impact. With all the recent buzz about a $5,700 boost, you’re probably wondering: Is it real? And if so, how does it affect me?

Here’s the lowdown. While there isn’t a single $5,700 check coming your way, 2025 does bring several benefit increases, including a 2.5% COLA and updated max payments.

If you’re a retiree, on disability, or managing low income with SSI, this guide will help you know what’s changing and how to make the most of it.

Let’s break it down in plain English.

Increase

There’s been a lot of chatter about a “$5,700 boost.” While that figure may be misleading as a one-time payout, here’s what’s actually happening:

Benefit Changes

Topic	Details
COLA Increase	2.5% for 2025
Average Monthly Boost	Around $50/month or $600/year
Max Retirement Benefit	$4,018/month at full retirement age
Max Delayed Benefit	$5,108/month at age 70
SSI Max Payment	$967/month (individual), $1,450 (couple)

This is all thanks to the Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA), which is designed to help you keep up with inflation. For example, if you received $1,927/month in 2024, you’ll now get around $1,976/month in 2025.

While it may not seem like much, over time, it really adds up—especially if you’re delaying retirement or receiving the maximum allowable benefits.

Boost

Let’s talk about the so-called “$5,700 boost.” This number is a bit of a myth in terms of a lump sum. Instead, it reflects the difference in annual income someone might receive due to a COLA raise plus delaying retirement.

For example:

• Monthly increase from COLA: ~$50
• Annual increase: ~$600
• Delaying retirement to 70: ~32% boost in benefits

These strategies combined over a few years could add up to thousands in extra income, which is likely how the $5,700 figure came into the conversation.

Dates

Knowing when your check arrives is just as important as knowing how much. Social Security and SSI payments follow strict schedules.

Payment Schedule

Birth Date Range	Social Security Payment Day
1st–10th	2nd Wednesday
11th–20th	3rd Wednesday
21st–31st	4th Wednesday
SSI Recipients	1st of each month

If the first of the month falls on a weekend or holiday, SSI is paid the previous business day. Staying on top of these dates helps you budget better—and avoid surprises.

Maximize

Let’s talk strategy. Want to get the most from your Social Security, SSI, or SSDI benefits? Here’s how:

Delay Retirement

Every year you wait (up to age 70) increases your monthly payout by roughly 8%. That’s real money. For example:

Age You Retire	Monthly Benefit
62	$2,000
70	$2,640

That extra $640/month adds up to $7,680/year. If you live well into your 80s or 90s, delaying retirement could net you tens of thousands more.

Check Eligibility

You may qualify for more than you think:

• Spousal Benefits
• Dependent Child Benefits
• SSI Add-Ons
• Divorced Spouse Benefits

Check SSA’s website or visit a local office to make sure you’re not missing out.

Stay Informed

Rules change. COLAs shift. Eligibility tweaks. Stay in the know by signing up for SSA updates or following trusted news outlets. Even small updates can impact your budget.

Tips

Social Security is only one part of your financial puzzle. Here are a few extra steps to strengthen your safety net:

• Build an Emergency Fund – Just 3–6 months of expenses can save you during emergencies.
• Consider Part-Time Work – Many retirees supplement income with a flexible job.
• Use State Programs – Look into SNAP, utility assistance, or senior discounts.

These small changes can go a long way in improving your monthly financial comfort.

FAQs