The 2025 Social Security Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) was announced in October, bringing a modest 2.5% increase. For many beneficiaries, this small adjustment falls far short of addressing the rising costs of living. With inflation eroding purchasing power and Medicare premiums increasing, retirees and disabled Americans are facing mounting financial challenges.
Strain on Vulnerable Beneficiaries
While COLA adjustments aim to keep Social Security payments in line with inflation, the 2.5% increase for 2025 leaves little room to cover rising expenses. For recipients of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), who are among the most vulnerable groups, the increase is particularly worrisome.
Medicare Premiums Complicate Matters
Medicare Part B premiums have risen by about $10 for 2025. Although seemingly minor, this increase will consume a significant portion of the average COLA boost, which is less than $50 for most beneficiaries. The result? Even less money to cover essentials like housing, groceries, and healthcare.
Real Impact of the COLA
A study by the legal firm Atticus highlights the grim reality for many Social Security beneficiaries:
- Three in five disability beneficiaries are deeply concerned about their financial stability.
- Nearly 60% of disability beneficiaries are considering finding additional income to offset rising costs, despite the risk of disrupting their benefits.
Additionally, 58% of respondents believe that COLA adjustments should more accurately reflect the true cost of living. Many advocates have proposed using a better index to calculate COLA, but Congress has yet to act on these suggestions.
Calls for Reform
The current system has drawn criticism for failing to address beneficiaries’ growing needs. Darcy Milburn, director of Social Security and healthcare policy at The Arc of the United States, calls for higher SSI benefits and the modernization of outdated rules that perpetuate poverty among recipients. These include penalties for marriage, barriers to work, and constraints on financial independence.
Advocates like Shannon Benton, executive director of The Senior Citizens League (TSCL), demand stronger COLAs, such as instituting a minimum 3% increase annually to ensure that retirees can maintain a dignified standard of living.
Positive Take on Lower COLA
Some experts, however, view the smaller COLA positively, linking it to cooling inflation. Cliff Ambrose, founder of Apex Wealth, argues that slower inflation stabilizes prices, reducing the need for large adjustments. In his words, a smaller COLA means retirees’ dollars “should go further because prices aren’t rising as fast.”
Retirees’ Dire Decisions
Despite optimistic takes, the 2.5% COLA has left many retirees reevaluating their financial futures. A poll conducted by The Motley Fool on October 11 found that:
- 50% of retirees are considering returning to work to make ends meet.
- Many feel the COLA does not adequately address their rising costs, forcing them to sacrifice retirement for financial stability.
The 2025 COLA increase, while tied to lower inflation, falls short for many Social Security recipients who are grappling with higher costs and stagnant benefits.
Advocates continue to push for reform, including updated COLA calculations and higher minimum benefits, to protect the financial stability of retirees and disabled individuals. Without significant changes, the gap between benefits and living expenses may continue to widen, leaving millions struggling to make ends meet.
FAQs
What is the 2025 Social Security COLA?
The 2025 COLA is a 2.5% increase in benefits.
Why are beneficiaries unhappy with the COLA?
Rising costs and higher Medicare premiums leave little of the increase to cover expenses.
How much have Medicare premiums increased?
Medicare Part B premiums increased by about $10 for 2025.
What changes do advocates want for Social Security?
Advocates propose a minimum 3% COLA and updated rules to support financial independence.
What percentage of retirees are considering returning to work?
A poll found that 50% of retirees may return to work for financial stability.
