Caregivers play a crucial role in supporting individuals with disabilities, medical conditions, or aging-related needs.
To provide financial relief, the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program offers monthly payments to eligible individuals, including caregivers classified as essential persons.
In March 2025, these payments will increase due to a 2.5% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA), bringing the maximum benefit to $967 per month.
Are you eligible for this financial support? When will the payment be issued? Here’s everything you need to know.
$967 SSI Payment For Caregivers In March 2025
The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides SSI payments to eligible individuals, couples, and essential caregivers. The 2.5% COLA increase will apply in January 2025, affecting payments received in March 2025.
New SSI Payment Amounts (March 2025)
| Recipient Type | Previous Amount (2024) | New Amount (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Individuals | $943 | $967 |
| Couples | $1,415 | $1,450 |
| Essential Persons (Caregivers) | $472 | $484 |
These adjustments help SSI recipients and caregivers keep up with inflation. If you are already receiving SSI, the new payment will be automatically applied—no additional action is needed.
Eligibility
To qualify for SSI payments, including caregiver benefits, you must meet certain requirements:
1. Age or Disability Requirement
- Age: Must be 65 years or older.
- Disability: Must be blind or disabled as per SSA guidelines.
2. Income and Asset Limits
- Income: Must have a monthly countable income below:
- $1,913 for individuals
- $2,827 for couples
- Resources: Total countable assets must be below:
- $2,000 for individuals
- $3,000 for couples
- Exemptions: Your primary home, one vehicle, and personal belongings are not counted in these limits.
3. Citizenship and Residency
- Must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen.
- Must reside in the U.S. (50 states, D.C., or the Northern Mariana Islands).
4. Essential Persons (Caregivers)
Caregivers can qualify for SSI essential person payments if:
- They live with an SSI recipient.
- Their presence is essential for the recipient’s well-being.
- The caregiving arrangement has existed since at least 1977 (new caregivers may not qualify).
Payment Schedule
SSI payments are typically issued on the 1st of each month. However, since March 1, 2025, falls on a Saturday, payments will be sent on Friday, February 28, 2025.
March 2025 SSI Payment Date
| Month | Payment Date | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| March 2025 | February 28, 2025 | March 1 falls on a Saturday |
How to Apply
If you or someone you care for meets the eligibility requirements, you can apply for SSI caregiver benefits using these steps:
1. Gather Required Documents
Before applying, prepare the following:
- Proof of Age: Birth certificate, passport, or government-issued ID.
- Citizenship/Residency Proof: U.S. passport, naturalization certificate, or residency permit.
- Income Records: Pay stubs, tax returns, or benefit statements.
- Asset Documentation: Bank statements, property deeds, and investment records.
- Medical Records (for disability claims): Doctor’s reports, test results, and treatment history.
2. Submit Your Application
You can apply for SSI benefits in three ways:
- Online: Visit the SSA website and complete the SSI application.
- By Phone: Call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778) to apply over the phone.
- In Person: Schedule an appointment at your local Social Security office.
3. Application Review
After submission, the SSA will review your application and may request additional documents. Processing times vary, so applying early can help prevent delays.
- SSI payments are increasing due to a 2.5% COLA adjustment in 2025.
- Caregivers (essential persons) may receive up to $484 per month.
- The March 2025 SSI payment will be issued on February 28, 2025.
- Eligibility is based on income, resources, disability status, and caregiving role.
- Apply online, by phone, or in person at an SSA office.
If you or a loved one qualifies, ensure your application and personal information are up to date with the SSA to receive the correct payment amount.
FAQs
When will the March 2025 SSI payment be issued?
Payments will be sent on February 28, 2025, since March 1 falls on a Saturday.
How much will SSI pay caregivers in 2025?
Essential caregivers can receive up to $484 per month under the SSI program.
Who qualifies as an essential person for SSI?
An essential person is someone who lives with and provides necessary care to an SSI recipient.
Can I apply for SSI benefits online?
Yes, you can apply online through the Social Security Administration’s website.
What is the income limit for SSI eligibility?
For individuals, the limit is $1,913 per month; for couples, it is $2,827.
