What Changes Are Coming to Social Security Disability in 2025?

In 2025, the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) programs will experience several key changes that will affect current and prospective beneficiaries. These changes updates include adjustments to payment amounts, changes in income thresholds, and legislative reforms aimed at improving equity within the system.

The Keener Law Firm is a highly experienced disability law firm working exclusively with disabled individuals from all over the country to win approval of their SSDI and SSI benefits. We also work with applicants seeking VA and DoD benefits. If you need information or help applying for or appealing a denial of benefits, contact The Keener Law Firm today.

What Is the Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) for 2025?

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has approved a 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for 2025. This increase is calculated annually to reflect inflation, ensuring that Social Security and SSI benefits maintain their value over time. For SSDI beneficiaries, this adjustment means higher monthly payments beginning in January 2025.

For example, the average monthly SSDI benefit will increase by approximately $50, bringing the average payment close to $1,976.

SSI recipients will also see higher payments, with the federal benefit rate rising to $967 per month for individuals and $1,450 for couples.

These changes are designed to offset the impact of inflation and support beneficiaries’ ability to cover basic expenses like housing, food, and medical care.

What Are the New Income Limits for 2025?

The SSA is raising the Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) thresholds in 2025. These thresholds determine how much you can earn while still qualifying for disability benefits. For non-blind recipients, the monthly SGA will go up to $1,620, while for individuals who are statutorily blind, it will increase to $2,700.

This is great news for those of you who want to work part-time or earn a little extra income without jeopardizing your SSDI benefits. The higher limits mean you can keep more of what you earn and still receive the support you need.

What’s Happening with the Trial Work Period (TWP)?

If you’re thinking about testing the waters by going back to work, the Trial Work Period (TWP) program gives you some breathing room. In 2025, the monthly earnings limit for a TWP month will increase to $1,160. This means you can earn up to that amount for nine months (not necessarily consecutive) within a five-year period without affecting your benefits.

This change encourages you to explore your ability to work while knowing your benefits are still there as a safety net. It’s a great option if you’re considering returning to the workforce but need time to figure out if you can manage it long-term.

What Legislative Changes Are Coming in 2025?

One of the biggest updates for 2025 is the repeal of the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO). These rules have long reduced Social Security benefits for public sector workers who also receive pensions from non-Social Security-covered jobs.

With these changes, millions of public employees like teachers, firefighters, and police officers will see their benefits increase. It’s a big step toward fairness for retirees who felt penalized for having both a pension and Social Security contributions.

How Will These Changes Help Public Sector Retirees?

The repeal of WEP and GPO means more money in the pockets of public sector retirees. Depending on your situation, you could see an increase in your monthly benefit of anywhere from $360 to over $1,000. That’s a significant improvement for those who’ve been affected by these reductions for years.

If you’ve worked in public service and qualify for Social Security, it’s worth taking a closer look at how this change will impact your retirement income.

What Should You Do to Prepare?

With all these updates, now is a great time to review your benefits and make sure everything is accurate. Check your annual benefits statement to confirm your earnings record is correct. If you’re affected by the repeal of WEP or GPO, take some time to understand how the changes will apply to you.

If you’re not sure where to start, The Keener Law Firm is here to help. They’ve worked with countless individuals to clarify their benefits, file claims, and address any concerns about changes like these.

How Can The Keener Law Firm Help?

At The Keener Law Firm, we’ve spent years helping people just like you successfully move through the Social Security system. Whether you’re applying for benefits for the first time or dealing with an appeal, we know the ins and outs of disability claims.

When changes like these come along, having someone in your corner who understands the details can make all the difference. The team at The Keener Law Firm can help you review your situation, figure out what these updates mean for you, and guide you through the process of securing your benefits.

What’s Your Next Step?

Now’s the perfect time to get a handle on these upcoming changes. Take a close look at your benefits, update your records, and consider how things like COLA, new SGA thresholds, and the repeal of WEP and GPO will affect you. If you have questions or need help figuring it all out, don’t hesitate to reach out to The Keener Law Firm.

Our team is ready to provide personalized support, whether you’re applying for SSDI, SSI, or other benefits. We will help you every step of the way, so you don’t have to face the process alone.

If you want to make sure you’re prepared, contact The Keener Law Firm today. They’ll help you understand these changes, protect your benefits, and give you peace of mind as you move forward. Don’t wait—schedule a consultation now to get started.