Social Security just announced a 3.6 percent increase that will go into effect in 2012. This increase is greeted by approving recipients who are looking forward to the extra money each month.

The inflation rates determine the Social Security rates. The last two years recipients received no increase in their checks due to the economic status. The last increase came in 2009 at 5.9 percent and was directly related to elevated energy expenses. The high unemployment rate negatively affects the number of people who can contribute to Social Security.

This raise will offer an additional $39 a month, and an additional $18 for Supplemental Security Income recipients. This will add $30 billion to the amount that Social Security will be dispersing in 2012.

Social Security is received by individuals who have disabilities as well. These disabilities can be work-related as well as long or short-term. If you need help filing for Social Security Disability Insurance benefits, please contact the Ohio Social Security Disability lawyers at the Social Security Resource & Information Center today.