$4,873 Payments Are Coming in 2025 – Are You on the List?

There’s a lot of talk about $4,873 Social Security payments in 2025. If you’re on Social Security, SSI, or SSDI, you might be wondering:

• Is this an extra check?
• Who actually qualifies?
• How much will I get?

Let’s break it all down so you know exactly what’s happening and what it means for you.

What’s the $4,873 Payment?

First things first—this is not a bonus check or stimulus payment. Instead, it refers to the maximum possible Social Security retirement benefit in 2025 for those who:

• Worked high-earning jobs throughout their careers
• Waited until full retirement age (67) or later to claim benefits

If you delay claiming benefits until age 70, the maximum monthly check goes even higher—to $5,108 per month.

But what about SSI and SSDI recipients? Here’s how much you’ll actually get.

How Much Will SSI & SSDI Recipients Get in 2025?

Because of the 2.5% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) in 2025, monthly benefits are increasing slightly. Here’s what that looks like:

SSI Recipients:

• $967 per month for individuals
• $1,450 per month for couples
• $484 per month for those with an essential caregiver

SSDI Recipients:

SSDI payments vary based on how much you worked and earned before your disability, but everyone receiving SSDI will get a 2.5% increase in their monthly check.

So, while $4,873 is the max Social Security retirement benefit, most SSI and SSDI recipients will not receive that amount—but you will see a slight increase in your payments.

Who Qualifies for These Payments?

Here’s how to know if you qualify for SSI, SSDI, or Social Security retirement benefits:

SSI Eligibility:

• You must be 65+ or disabled
• You must have low income
• You must have limited financial resources (under $2,000 for individuals, $3,000 for couples)

SSDI Eligibility:

• You must have a disability that prevents you from working
• You must have worked long enough to earn Social Security credits

Social Security Retirement Eligibility:

• You qualify based on your work history
• The amount you get depends on your lifetime earnings and when you retire

How to Apply for SSI or SSDI

If you think you qualify, here’s how to apply:

1. Gather Your Documents – You’ll need your Social Security number, birth certificate, proof of income, and medical records (for SSDI).
2. Apply Online or In Person – Go to SSA.gov or visit your local Social Security office.
3. Be Prepared to Wait – The process can take months, so apply as soon as possible.

When Will You Get Paid?

• SSI payments arrive on the 1st of each month.
• SSDI payments depend on your birth date—if you’re already receiving benefits, you’ll continue to get them on your usual payment date.
• If you’re applying for benefits for the first time, expect several months of processing time before you start getting payments.