Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLA)

The most common reason for an increase in SSI benefits is the Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA). The Social Security Administration (SSA) typically reviews the cost of living each year and makes adjustments to benefits to help recipients keep pace with inflation.

• How COLA works: The COLA increase is determined based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures the average change in prices for goods and services, such as food, housing, and transportation. If the CPI shows that the cost of living has gone up, SSI benefits will likely increase to help recipients cope with rising prices.
• When does COLA take effect: Typically, COLA adjustments are announced in October and implemented in January. These adjustments apply to SSI and other Social Security benefits (such as Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and retirement benefits).
• How much can SSI increase with COLA: The percentage of the increase varies each year, depending on inflation. For example, in 2023, SSI benefits were increased by 8.7% due to the inflation rate, which was one of the highest COLA increases in decades.

Federal and State Adjustments

In addition to COLA, there can also be other types of increases in SSI benefits:

• Federal Level Adjustments: Each year, the SSA may update the federal benefit rate for SSI recipients. The amount you receive may change due to legislative changes or adjustments made by the SSA.
• State Supplements: Some states provide supplemental payments in addition to the federal SSI benefits. These state-level supplements can increase or decrease, depending on the state’s budget and legislation. Not all states provide additional supplements, but if you live in one that does, your overall SSI benefit may be higher.
• Resource and Income Limits: While SSI payments themselves may increase with COLA or state supplements, the resource and income limits that determine eligibility for SSI benefits may also change. If these limits are raised, you might become eligible for higher SSI benefits if your income or assets are near the limits.

Increase Due to Changes in Your Situation

You might also experience an increase in your SSI benefits if your personal circumstances change, such as:

• Increase in income: If you begin receiving a source of income that is not counted against your SSI eligibility (such as a legal settlement or a gift), it might raise your benefits.
• Changes in living situation: Moving into a more supportive living arrangement (like assisted living) or a situation where someone else is helping with your housing could increase the amount of SSI benefits you receive.
• Disability changes: If your medical condition worsens and your disability becomes more severe, you might be able to apply for additional SSI benefits or other assistance. However, this often requires medical evidence to support the change in condition.

How to Ensure You’re Receiving the Correct SSI Amount

If you believe your SSI benefits haven’t been adjusted properly or you think you’re missing out on an increase, you can take the following steps:

• Check your annual COLA adjustment: The SSA usually sends out a notice in December about the upcoming COLA increase. This notice will show your new monthly SSI amount.
• Contact the SSA: If you have questions or concerns about whether your benefits have increased, you can contact the SSA directly at 1-800-772-1213. They can help clarify your benefit amounts, adjustments, and any changes that may have occurred.
• Consult a benefits specialist: If you need assistance understanding your benefits, a disability advocate or attorney who specializes in Social Security issues can help ensure that you’re receiving the correct amount.