Retirees to See 2.8% Social Security COLA in 2026, But Is It Enough?

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has officially announced that 2026 benefits will include a 2.8 percent cost-of-living adjustment (COLA).

 

For the average retiree, this translates to roughly $56 more per month, an increase that will also apply to individuals receiving disability benefits.

 

Those receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) will see their adjusted payments begin at the end of December 2025, with the change taking effect for all other Social Security recipients in January 2026.

 

This adjustment is based on federal inflation data, specifically the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners (CPI-W).

 

The 2.8 percent figure reflects moderating inflation compared to previous years, a stark contrast to the historic 8.7% bump seen in 2023.

 

Concerns over benefit adequacy are growing as local costs for housing, groceries, and utilities continue to climb, stretching fixed incomes to their breaking point.

 

The core issue is whether this small increase truly protects the purchasing power of seniors.

 

The agency also announced a change for current workers, raising the maximum amount of earnings subject to the Social Security tax.

 

It's a move that impacts higher earners while funding the system for future retirees.

 

Official notices detailing the new monthly benefit amounts will be mailed to recipients and made available online through the my Social Security account portal in early December.

 

FAQ

 

What is the Social Security COLA for 2026?

 

The cost-of-living adjustment for 2026 is 2.8 percent, which will increase the monthly benefit for all Social Security and SSI recipients.

 

How much will my Social Security check increase in 2026?

 

The average increase for retirees will be about $56 per month. Your specific amount will depend on your current benefit and will be detailed in the official notice from the SSA.

 

Why is the 2026 COLA smaller than in past years?

 

The COLA is tied directly to inflation. As inflation has cooled down from the 40-year highs seen previously, the corresponding benefit adjustment is smaller.