Eligible New Yorkers to Receive $967 Payments—Here’s Who Qualifies

New York State residents receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are set to receive checks of up to $967 per month in 2025, following a federal cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). This increase aims to assist low-income individuals in coping with inflation and rising expenses. Additionally, Governor Kathy Hochul has proposed a one-time “Inflation Refund” payment for eligible New Yorkers. Here’s what you need to know about these financial relief measures.

SSI Payments Increase to $967 in 2025

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has announced that the maximum federal SSI payment for individuals has risen to $967 per month in 2025, a 2.5% increase from the previous year. Couples eligible for SSI will now receive up to $1,450 per month, while an “essential person”—someone providing necessary care to an SSI recipient—can receive up to $484.

This increase is part of an annual COLA adjustment, designed to ensure that federal benefits keep pace with inflation. COLA adjustments are based on the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W), which measures inflation trends and adjusts benefits accordingly. More details on the COLA adjustments can be found on the official SSA website.

Who Is Eligible for the $967 SSI Checks?

SSI benefits are available to individuals who meet at least one of the following criteria:

• Aged 65 or older
• Blind or disabled
• Have limited income and resources

Eligibility is determined by income and asset levels. While the federal maximum SSI payment is set at $967, the actual amount received by beneficiaries can vary based on additional income, living arrangements, and state-specific supplements. New York is one of the states that provide extra SSI benefits beyond the federal amount. More information about SSI eligibility and payment amounts is available at ssa.gov.

New York’s Proposed “Inflation Refund” Checks

In addition to the SSI payment increase, Governor Kathy Hochul has proposed an “Inflation Refund” program to provide further relief to state residents struggling with rising costs. The plan, if approved, would offer the following payments:

• $300 for individuals earning less than $150,000 annually
• $500 for families earning less than $300,000 annually

This initiative is part of a broader economic relief strategy, aiming to distribute approximately $3 billion to an estimated 8.6 million New Yorkers. Payments could begin as early as fall 2025. The proposal is still subject to approval by state lawmakers, and discussions are ongoing. More details on this initiative can be found on the New York State Governor’s website: governor.ny.gov.

Potential Challenges and Opposition

While the proposed Inflation Refund plan has been welcomed by many, it has also faced criticism from lawmakers and analysts. Some argue that the state’s resources should be directed toward long-term solutions rather than one-time payments. Suggested alternatives include:

• Increased funding for pre-kindergarten and afterschool programs
• Investments in affordable housing initiatives
• Reducing state debt accumulated during the pandemic

Critics worry that while the checks offer immediate relief, they do not address the root causes of financial struggles, such as the high cost of living in New York. Legislative debates will determine the fate of the Inflation Refund program in the coming months.

How to Claim These Payments?

For SSI beneficiaries, the $967 monthly payments are automatic and do not require additional applications. Payments are typically distributed via direct deposit, paper checks, or Direct Express debit cards. More details on receiving SSI payments can be found at ssa.gov/payments.

For the Inflation Refund program, eligibility criteria and the distribution process are still being determined. If approved, New York State will provide guidance on how eligible residents can receive their payments. Updates will be posted on the official state website: tax.ny.gov.

Final Thoughts

The increase in SSI payments and the proposed Inflation Refund checks aim to provide much-needed financial support to eligible New Yorkers. However, as discussions continue, it remains crucial for residents to stay informed about their eligibility and any updates on the payment distribution process.

This article has been carefully fact-checked by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and eliminate any misleading information. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in our content.