The Social Security Administration (SSA) has announced in its latest Monthly Statistical Snapshot that the benefits for the 52.8 million retired workers in the United States have reached an unprecedented level.
For the first time, the average Social Security benefit has exceeded $2,000, specifically reaching $2,002.39—every cent counts. In comparison, the average benefit for retired workers in May 2024 was approximately $1,917, reflecting a notable increase of $85.
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This 4.45% rise over the past year significantly surpasses the 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) implemented in 2025 to alleviate the financial burden caused by inflation. Correspondingly, the consumer price index experienced a 2.4% increase from May 2024 to May 2025.
Record Benefits for Retired Workers
In May 2025, retirees received more substantial benefits than ever before. The report indicates that the overall average for all beneficiaries stands at $1,857.75. This figure encompasses various categories of benefits: spousal benefits averaging $950.20, survivors benefits for widowers at $1,863.71, survivors benefits for children totaling $1,139.18, and benefits for disabled workers averaging $1,581.97.
Factors Contributing to Increased Benefits
A primary factor driving this increase is the enactment of the Social Security Fairness Act. This legislation abolishes previous provisions that had reduced benefits for individuals also receiving pensions from state or local governments or from employers that opted not to withhold Social Security taxes.
This legislative change has resulted in one-time retroactive payments for many beneficiaries.
