According to The Sun , Social Security recipients must act now to ensure they don’t miss out on crucial information about their 2025 benefits. The deadline to take action is November 20, and failing to do so could delay access to important details regarding upcoming payments.
Most retirees are familiar with the basics of Social Security — including monthly payments that arrive on Wednesdays depending on their birthday, and the annual cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) that impacts the following year’s benefits. In mid-October, the Social Security Administration (SSA) confirmed the COLA for 2025, which will increase by 2.5%, the smallest adjustment in four years.
While inflation had been high since 2020, it has cooled recently, which has resulted in a smaller COLA increase. For 2025, the average monthly benefit will rise from $1,921 to $1,969, adding up to an annual total of $23,628, up from $23,052 in 2024. The new benefit amount will be reflected starting in January.
However, these amounts are not the same for everyone. Your Social Security benefit depends on various factors, such as how many years you worked, how much you earned, and when you began claiming benefits.
To access these details, recipients must sign up for a My Social Security Account by November 20. This free online service allows users to view their exact 2025 benefit amount, helping them budget for the year ahead. Those with an account can also request a replacement Social Security card, access their 1099 tax form, monitor their applications, and manage their benefits.
By meeting the November 20 deadline, users can also view their COLA notice and see the exact increase in their benefits starting in December. While it’s not mandatory to create an account, it offers numerous benefits that can streamline the process.
For those who don’t sign up for the online account, the SSA will mail physical letters containing COLA notices throughout December. These letters can assist with budgeting for 2025 expenses.
Also Read – Social Security deposits of up to $4,873 will be paid
Social Security benefits are a significant part of many Americans’ income, especially for retirees. According to SSA data, nine out of 10 individuals aged 65 and older received benefits in 2024. For many, Social Security accounts for about 30% of their annual income, and for some, it can be as much as 90%.
In addition to the COLA increase, there is also a new round of Social Security checks going out soon, including payments worth over $4,800, with two payment options available. This month, recipients will also automatically receive a payment of $943.
It’s crucial for Social Security recipients to take action by November 20 to ensure they have access to the most up-to-date information on their benefits for the year ahead.
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