With the US inflation rate reaching its highest point in more than 40 years, Americans who receive Social Security benefits, including SSD, are on pace to receive a cost-of-living-adjustment of nearly 9 percent.
What does that mean for you if you are already receiving Social Security Disability?
Well, we’ve seen estimates of between 8.6 and 8.8 percent. So let’s play it safe and go low.
The average monthly benefit to disabled workers is $1,362 as of August 2022. Remember, this is an average, and each individual’s benefit is based on their average lifetime earnings before they became disabled and any other disability payments they might receive. Some people receive more than the average. Some receive less.
So for a disabled worker receiving $1,358, the approximate increase at 8.6% would be about $116.79 per month. Their new monthly disability payment would be $1,474.79.
Folks who receive other kinds of Social Security benefits would receive the same percent of increase.
The average retired worker receives $1,673 and would receive an increase of about $143.88 for a total of $1,816.88.
The average survivor benefit is $1,331. That would increase to about $1445.47, a rise of $114.47.
Finally, for recipients of Supplemental Security Income, who receive an average payment of $623, the new total would be $676.58, which represents an increase of $53.58.
How to get the increase
You don’t have to do anything to receive your increase in monthly allowance. Beware of anyone who claims they can get your increase early or in a lump sum. They cannot.
The COLA amount will be announced Thursday, and it will take effect in January 2023. If, after the adjustment, you have questions about your benefit amount, contact the Social Security Administration. Visit ssa.gov or call 1-800-772-1213. If necessary, you can schedule an appointment.
Many local field offices have reopened and are taking walk-in customers, but we suggest making an appointment before you go. Wait times are long at some offices. Visit ssa.gov to check to see what field offices are open near you.