Viral posts circulating on YouTube and social media have claimed that a new $1,800 stimulus payment is being issued on July 20, 2025, for recipients of SSI, SSDI, and VA benefits. However, no such payment has been announced by any official source, and this information is false.
No Official Announcement of $1,800 Stimulus
As of now, the U.S. government has not passed any law or signed any order approving a one-time $1,800 stimulus check for people receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), or Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits. The rumour appears to stem from misinformation or misinterpretation of the 2025 Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA).
What Did Happen in 2025: A 2.5% COLA Increase
While there is no large lump-sum check, there was a legitimate increase to monthly benefit amounts due to the 2025 COLA adjustment. The COLA is an annual inflation-based increase to federal benefits. In 2025, beneficiaries saw a 2.5% rise in monthly payments.
For example:
- SSI individual benefits rose from approximately $940 to $967
- SSDI and VA benefits also increased by 2.5%, depending on individual eligibility
These increases were applied automatically starting January 2025 and do not require any special applications or additional forms.
What Are SSI, SSDI, and VA Benefits?
SSI provides support for older adults and people with disabilities who have limited income. SSDI offers benefits to individuals who can no longer work due to a qualifying disability, based on work history. VA benefits support eligible military veterans and include disability compensation, pensions, and other services.
Where Did the $1,800 Rumor Come From?
The rumour likely came from recycled or misleading online content that confused past COVID-19 relief payments with the 2025 COLA. Some users may have also misread articles or watched misleading YouTube videos. Remember, real government payment news is always shared on sites like SSA.gov or VA.gov—not on Facebook or WhatsApp forwards.
Beware of Scams
Scammers often use viral rumours to trick vulnerable individuals. If someone offers to help you claim a nonexistent payment—for a fee—it’s likely a scam. Do not share your personal or financial information with unknown sources. The government will never ask for payment to release your benefits.
How to Manage Finances in 2025
While there is no extra $1,800 payment, here are some tips to better manage your finances:
- Create a monthly budget to track essential spending
- Explore government assistance programs such as SNAP or Medicaid
- Use food banks and community resources
- Seek financial advice from nonprofits or local agencies
- Start an emergency savings fund, even with small contributions
Stay Informed, Stay Safe
In summary, no $1,800 stimulus payment is being sent in July 2025. The real change this year is a 2.5% monthly increase through COLA. To stay safe and informed, always rely on government websites like SSA.gov and VA.gov. Avoid misinformation, and don’t trust unofficial claims or forwarded messages without verifying the facts.