Recent changes to benefit amounts, eligibility rules, deadlines, and policies for programs tracked on Uplift.
The 2025 cost-of-living adjustment for Social Security retirement and disability benefits is 2.5%. The average retired worker's benefit rose to approximately $1,976 per month. The maximum benefit for a worker claiming at age 70 is now $5,108 per month.
The Social Security Administration increased the SSI federal benefit rate for 2025. Individuals now receive up to $967 per month, and couples up to $1,450. The increase reflects the annual cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) of 2.5% applied to Social Security and SSI payments.
USDA updated SNAP income limits and benefit amounts for FY2025. The gross income limit for a household of four is now $3,218 per month (130% FPL). Maximum monthly allotments increased slightly: the maximum for a household of four is $975, up from $973.
The standard Medicare Part B premium for 2025 is $185 per month, an increase of about $10.30 from the 2024 rate of $174.70. The Part B deductible also increased to $257 per year. Higher-income beneficiaries may pay more under Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amounts (IRMAA).
The enhanced premium tax credits originally introduced under the American Rescue Plan Act remain in effect through 2025, extended by the Inflation Reduction Act. Households above 400% FPL can still receive subsidies if the benchmark silver plan would cost more than 8.5% of their household income. Many people who previously were ineligible for subsidies now qualify.
The maximum Pell Grant for the 2025-26 award year remains $7,395. The minimum Pell Grant award is $740. Students can submit the 2025-26 FAFSA to determine eligibility. FAFSA processing changes under the FUTURE Act continue to simplify the application process.
For the 2025 tax year (returns filed in 2026), the maximum EITC increases to $8,046 for families with three or more children. For workers without children, the maximum is $649. Income limits also increased slightly with inflation. The IRS reminds taxpayers that about one in five eligible workers fails to claim this credit each year.
The Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) amount for non-blind SSDI recipients in 2025 is $1,620 per month, up from $1,550 in 2024. For blind beneficiaries, the SGA limit is $2,700. Earning above the SGA limit can affect SSDI eligibility, so beneficiaries who return to work should track their monthly earnings.
The Social Security Administration expanded the income limits for Extra Help (Low Income Subsidy) for Medicare Part D. In 2025, individuals with income up to $22,590 and couples with income up to $30,660 may qualify. The asset limits also increased. Beneficiaries who were previously denied Extra Help are encouraged to reapply.
Most state LIHEAP programs opened applications for the 2024-25 heating season in October and November. Funds are limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis in many states. Households that missed last year's window should apply early — some state programs run out of funds within the first few weeks of opening.
Open enrollment for ACA Marketplace health plans for 2025 coverage runs November 1, 2024 through January 15, 2025. Enroll by December 15 for coverage starting January 1. Most states use Healthcare.gov; a handful run their own state-based marketplaces with slightly different deadlines.
USDA is expanding the ability to use WIC benefits for online grocery purchases. The program, previously piloted in select areas, is rolling out to more states throughout 2024-25. Participants in eligible states can use their WIC EBT card or app at participating online retailers to purchase approved WIC foods.
VA disability compensation rates increased 2.5% for 2025, matching the Social Security COLA. A veteran with a 100% disability rating now receives $3,757.15 per month (without dependents). The PACT Act continues to expand presumptive service connection for veterans exposed to toxic substances, making it easier for many veterans to file successful claims.
HUD published updated Fair Market Rents (FMRs) for FY2025, which take effect October 1, 2024. FMRs set the benchmark for Housing Choice Voucher payment standards. In most metro areas, rents increased 5-15% from the previous year. PHAs may update their payment standards in response, which can affect how far a voucher stretches in the private market.
Congress extended TANF funding at $16.5 billion annually through fiscal year 2025. States continue to have broad flexibility in how they use TANF block grant funds. Advocates note that in many states, only a small share of TANF dollars reaches families as direct cash assistance, with most going to other services — child welfare, administration, and work programs.
Following the end of COVID-era continuous enrollment protections in 2023, states completed the "unwinding" process of redetermining eligibility for all CHIP and Medicaid enrollees. Millions of children lost coverage during this period, many due to administrative reasons rather than ineligibility. Families who lost coverage are encouraged to reapply — most children who lost CHIP or Medicaid during unwinding still qualify.
The IRS announced that Direct File — the free, IRS-run tax filing option — will be permanent and expanded for the 2025 filing season. Direct File allows eligible taxpayers to file federal returns directly with the IRS at no cost, without using a third-party software provider. Eligibility is limited to taxpayers with simple tax situations in participating states.
As of mid-2024, 10 states have not expanded Medicaid under the ACA: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Mississippi, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. Adults in these states without children or disabilities often fall into a coverage gap — earning too much for traditional Medicaid but too little for Marketplace subsidies. Federal legislation to close the coverage gap has not advanced.
New federal CCDF regulations finalized in 2024 require states to simplify applications, reduce administrative burdens, and use 12-month continuous eligibility for families. States have until 2025-2026 to implement these changes. The updates are designed to reduce instances where families lose subsidies during temporary income fluctuations.
SNAP online grocery purchasing is now available in all 50 states. Participating retailers include Amazon, Walmart, Kroger, Instacart, and others. Participants can use their EBT card to pay for eligible food items online, with delivery or pickup. SNAP benefits cannot be used to pay for delivery fees or service charges.
This page summarizes publicly available information about benefit program changes. Always verify current rules at the official program source before making financial decisions.