The Social Security COLA Increase in 2026 brings a 2.8% raise for more than 75 million Americans, including retirees, disabled workers, survivors, and SSI recipients. With rising prices for essentials like groceries, rent, and electricity, this boost aims to help seniors maintain their buying power in the new year. The increase becomes effective automatically—no application required—and will be reflected in checks starting January 2026 (SSI begins December 31, 2025). Here’s a simple, clear breakdown of the new amounts, eligibility, timelines, and tips to maximize your benefits.
What Is the Social Security COLA?
The Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) is a yearly increase that helps Social Security benefits keep pace with inflation.
Why COLA Exists
- Designed to protect purchasing power
- Automatically applied to all eligible benefits
- Based on the CPI-W inflation index
- Has averaged 3.1% over the past decade
The 2.8% COLA for 2026 is moderate—smaller than past spikes but still crucial for millions relying on monthly Social Security checks.
How the SSA Calculated the 2026 COLA
The 2.8% increase is based on inflation from July to September 2024 compared to the same months in 2025. Higher prices for essentials led to this boost. Although the official announcement was delayed to October 24, 2025, payment schedules remain unchanged.
Quick Example
- Current benefit:Â $2,000/month
- Increase:Â $2,000 Ă— 0.028 = $56
- New amount:Â $2,056/month
Your increase depends entirely on your current base benefit.
New 2026 Social Security Payment Amounts
Here are the updated average monthly benefits after the 2.8% COLA:
| Benefit Type | 2025 Amount | 2026 Amount | Monthly Increase | Yearly Increase |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Retirement | $1,976 | $2,032 | $56 | $672 |
| Disability (SSDI) | $1,539 | $1,582 | $43 | $516 |
| SSI (Individual) | $943 | $969 | $26 | $312 |
| SSI (Couple) | $1,415 | $1,455 | $40 | $480 |
| Maximum at Age 70 | $4,983 | $5,108 | $125 | $1,500 |
| Spousal Benefit (50%) | $988 | $1,016 | $28 | $336 |
Your actual increase may vary based on your earnings history, age at claiming, and Medicare deductions.
Full Social Security Payment Schedule for 2026
Payment dates depend on your birth date:
- 1st–10th: Second Wednesday
- 11th–20th: Third Wednesday
- 21st–31st: Fourth Wednesday
- SSI:Â First of every month
SSI recipients get their 2026 COLA on December 31, 2025.
Quick Tips
- Set up direct deposit for faster payments
- Use ssa.gov/myaccount to view your updated amount
- Contact SSA at 1-800-772-1213 for help
Who Will Receive the 2026 COLA Increase?
Everyone currently receiving Social Security or SSI automatically gets the increase, including:
- Retirees
- Disabled workers (SSDI) and dependents
- Widows, widowers, and surviving children
- SSI beneficiaries
Exceptions
- New claimants after January 2026 begin with the updated benefit
- Mid-year 2026 claimants may receive partial increases
- High-income beneficiaries may see Medicare deductions reduce their net COLA
How Medicare Affects Your COLA
Medicare Part B premiums rise to $202.90 in 2026, a $17.90 increase.
Impact on the Average Retiree
- COLA increase:Â +$56
- Part B premium: –$17.90
- Net gain: +$38.10/month
The hold harmless rule protects low-income beneficiaries from premiums exceeding their COLA increase.
Tips to Maximize Your Social Security Benefits in 2026
Make the most of your COLA boost with simple strategies:
- Delay claiming to age 70 for maximum monthly benefits
- Work longer to replace low-earning years
- Review SSA earnings records for errors
- Check eligibility for Extra Help, food assistance, or energy credits
- Plan for taxes—up to 85% of benefits may be taxable
FAQs
1. When will the 2026 COLA start?
Retirement and SSDI benefits begin January 1, 2026. SSI begins December 31, 2025.
2. How much will my Social Security increase?
The average retirement increase is $56/month. Multiply your current amount by 0.028 to calculate your raise.
3. Do I need to apply for the COLA?
No. All increases are automatic.
4. Will Medicare reduce my COLA?
Partially. The Part B premium increase will reduce your net monthly gain, but the hold harmless rule protects lower-income beneficiaries.
5. Where can I check my new 2026 benefit amount?
Log in to ssa.gov/myaccount or check your December 2025 COLA notice.
Conclusion
The 2026 Social Security COLA Increase may be modest, but it provides meaningful support as living costs continue to rise. With updated benefit amounts, a predictable payment schedule, and automatic application, the boost helps retirees and disabled workers better manage essential expenses. Checking your updated amount early and planning for Medicare deductions will help you make the most of your benefits in the year ahead.