Concerns Rise Over 2025 Social Security COLA

As retirees await the announcement of the 2025 Social Security cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), concerns are rising that the projected increase of 2.57% may not adequately cover rising living expenses, especially given the impact of inflation on costs such as food and healthcare. Historical trends show that Social Security COLAs have often failed to keep pace with actual inflation, leading to significant loss of purchasing power for seniors over the years. Proposed changes to use the Consumer Price Index for the Elderly (CPI-E) could better reflect the financial realities faced by older Americans, but such reforms are not yet in place. Additionally, the Social Security Administration plans to implement new rules impacting approximately 7 million Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients, which aim to expand eligibility and increase financial support. These changes include redefining household eligibility and excluding food benefits from income calculations, potentially raising SSI payments for many. As the COLA announcement approaches, retirees are encouraged to review their finances and prepare for a potentially modest increase in benefits.