After much speculation on the cost of living adjustment (COLA) for 2021 on social security disability benefits, the Social Security Administration officially announced the adjustment this week. As expected, social security benefits will increase by 1.3% in 2021 – the smallest cost of living adjustment since 2017.

The 10-year average increase has been 1.6%, which is exactly the amount that benefits changed in 2020, down from a solid 2.8% in 2019. The 2021 number represents a small change, but is higher than the early rumored 0 increase that many were concerned about earlier in the year.

Social Security Disability Average and Maximum Payments for 2021

Given the 1.3% increase that has been approved, the average social security payment for 2021 will increase from $1,523 in 2020 to $1,543 in 2021. The average benefit for a couple who are both receiving benefits will increase from $2,563 in 2020 to $2,596 in 2021.

This also means that the maximum social security monthly benefit for 2021 will increase from $3,011 a month to $3,148 a month, which is a monthly increase of $137.

The COLA is calculated utilizing the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers. The adjustment is reached largely on the increase of average prices for the third quarter of the preceding year. In the event that prices don’t increase, the COLA would be zero, something that happened in 2010 and 2011 as the economy was recovering from recession.

While the average and maximum amounts available to social security disability recipients is good to know, every individual’s situation is unique, as past wages and work history play directly into the benefit someone will ultimately receive.

If you have been denied benefits, or are needing assistance applying for the first time, do not hesitate to get an attorney involved. Tabak Law has a history of getting individuals the social security disability benefits they deserve. Reach out by filling out a form on this site or by calling 844-432-0114.

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