Millions of beneficiaries should see a 2.5 % increase this month, but some checks still look flat.
If your July benefit is identical to June’s, you’re not alone. The cost‑of‑living adjustment (COLA) for 2025 kicked in back in January, yet pockets of retirees, SSDI recipients and survivors still haven’t noticed a dime. So where’s the money?
Why some Social Security recipients still haven’t felt the 2025 COLA increase
For many, the raise is hiding in plain sight. Higher Medicare Part B premiums, tax withholding or recent enrollment can disguise the extra cash. Others had their banking information change just as the Social Security Administration (SSA) pushed out the update — delaying deposits by a pay cycle or two. Still scratching your head? The most common culprits are:
- Medicare premiums rose and swallowed the 2.5 % bump
- You filed late in 2024, so your first checks already reflected the new rate
- You’re comparing the net deposit rather than the gross benefit
- Your routing or account number was updated after December notices went out
Simple steps to confirm your July benefit includes the full 2.5 percent raise
First, grab December’s COLA letter or open your my Social Security account. The gross figure (before deductions) should be 2.5 % higher than last year’s. Need a quick yard‑stick? Check these examples:
| 2024 monthly benefit | 2025 benefit with COLA | Net if $175 Part B premium |
|---|---|---|
| $1,000 | $1,025 | $ 850 |
| $1,500 | $1,537.50 | $1,362.50 |
| $2,200 | $2,255 | $2,080 |
Wondering why the net feels smaller? Notice how a bigger premium chips away at the raise.
What to do immediately if your July payment still shows last year’s benefit amount
First, verify your bank received the deposit on your scheduled pay‑date — the second, third or fourth Wednesday, depending on your birthday. Still short? Call the SSA at 800‑772‑1213 or visit a local office with ID and a recent statement. Ask the agent to run a payment trace and confirm your benefit rate. Keep records of call times and reference numbers; they speed up any follow‑up.
If an error surfaces, the SSA will issue the missing funds, usually within 30 days. Consequently, your August check should catch up — plus any retroactive difference.
The COLA is real and permanent through December 2025. Double‑check your gross amount, compare it to last year’s letter, and act now if the numbers don’t add up. After all, every extra dollar counts when the bills keep climbing.