Married Couples Could Get $17,404 in Social Security in 2025—Check If You Qualify!

Married couples relying on Social Security benefits can look forward to an average combined annual payment of $17,404 in 2025. This increase comes as part of the government’s effort to adjust benefits in response to rising living costs, ensuring retirees and their families maintain financial stability.

The new payment amount reflects an increase driven by the 2024 Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA), which will be fully applied to benefits in the coming year. Here’s what couples need to know about eligibility, how payments are calculated, and when they’ll arrive.

What Is the $17,404 Annual Payment?

The $17,404 figure represents the average annual Social Security benefit for married couples. This works out to roughly $1,450 per month per spouse, but individual amounts will vary depending on each person’s earnings history, retirement age, and other factors.

This increase is a direct result of the COLA, which adjusts benefits annually to keep pace with inflation. For 2025, the adjustment reflects higher living expenses seen in 2024.

Who Is Eligible for This Payment?

Married couples receiving Social Security benefits can qualify if they meet the following criteria:

• Both Spouses Receiving Benefits: Each spouse must qualify for Social Security based on their work history or receive a spousal benefit based on the other partner’s earnings.
• Retirement Age: Couples claiming benefits at their Full Retirement Age (FRA)—typically 66 to 67 years old—will receive higher payments. Those who delayed benefits past their FRA may qualify for even more.
• Disability or Survivor Benefits: Couples, where one or both partners receive Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or survivor benefits, are also eligible for payments in line with their circumstances.

How Are Payments Calculated?

The exact amount couples receive is based on several factors, including:

• Earnings History: Benefits are calculated using the highest 35 years of earnings for each spouse. Higher earners receive larger monthly payments.
• COLA Adjustments: The 2025 COLA will increase payments for all Social Security recipients to account for inflation.
• Claiming Age: Couples who claimed benefits early will receive reduced payments, while those who delayed benefits beyond their FRA could see significantly higher monthly amounts.

When Will Payments Arrive?

Social Security payments are issued monthly and follow a schedule based on the primary beneficiary’s birth date:

• 1st–10th Birthdays: Payments are deposited on the second Wednesday of the month.
• 11th–20th Birthdays: Payments are issued on the third Wednesday of the month.
• 21st–31st Birthdays: Payments arrive on the fourth Wednesday of the month.

For January 2025, payments will begin on January 8 for the first group.

How to Check Your Payment Amount

To find out how much you and your spouse can expect, follow these steps:

1. Log Into My Social Security: Use the SSA’s online portal to view your personalized benefits estimate.
2. Review Your Social Security Statement: This document shows your estimated monthly benefits based on your work history and retirement age.
3. Contact the SSA: For specific questions, reach out to the Social Security Administration directly.

Why This Increase Matters

For many retired couples, Social Security is a primary source of income, helping to cover essential expenses like housing, groceries, and healthcare. The $17,404 annual benefit provides a critical financial cushion, particularly as living costs continue to rise.

Final Thoughts

If you and your spouse are eligible for Social Security benefits, the 2025 increase offers an opportunity for greater financial stability. Check your eligibility, confirm your benefit amounts, and stay on top of payment dates to make the most of this boost.

This adjustment ensures married couples can maintain a comfortable standard of living in retirement while keeping up with inflation-driven expenses.