Social Security COLA 2026: 2.8% Benefit Increase Announced

Social Security COLA Updates for 2026: see the new payment amounts

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has officially announced a 2.8% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) for 2026. This increase helps approximately 75 million American beneficiaries (including retirees, disabled workers, and survivors) keep pace with the rising cost of essentials.

Starting in January, the average retired worker will see a monthly benefit increase of about $56. This guide breaks down exactly what the 2026 Social Security increase means for your finances, including new average payment amounts.

At a glance: 2026 COLA highlights 

What is the Social Security COLA for 2026?

The Social Security COLA 2026 is not a bonus or an extra payment; it is an automatic, non-negotiable adjustment meant to protect your purchasing power from inflation. Since 1975, the COLA has been the mechanism by which Social Security benefits have been regularly updated to reflect changes in the cost of living.

As groceries, utilities, and other essentials rise in price, this 2.8% adjustment helps ensure your fixed-income benefits maintain their buying power.

How does the SSA calculate the COLA?

The COLA is calculated using the Consumer Price Index, which is tracked by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The SSA looks at how the average “CPI-W” changed during the third calendar quarter (July, August, and September) of the current year compared to the previous year's third quarter. The resulting percentage increase (in this case, 2.8%) is what is applied to your benefits.  

This ensures transparency and keeps benefits aligned with economic conditions.

How much will social security checks increase in 2026?

The 2.8% increase will be applied to all current Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. The average retired worker will see a monthly raise of about $56 a month. But your individual 2026 Social Security increase is based on your current payment.

Maximum social security benefit amounts in 2026 

If you were a high earner for most of your career and delayed filing for benefits, you will receive the highest possible checks. 

Note: The official maximum benefit for 2026 filers is based on a separate wage calculation and will be confirmed later by the SSA.

2026 social security payment schedule and key dates

Most beneficiaries will see the COLA increase with the January 2026 payment.

• SSI Recipients: First increased payment arrives December 31, 2025.

• Social Security Schedule: Payment timing depends on the birthday:

  • 1st–10th: Paid the second Wednesday

  • 11th–20th: Paid the third Wednesday

  • 21st–31st: Paid the fourth Wednesday

What is the new social security taxable maximum for 2026?

The 2026 taxable wage base (the maximum income on which you pay Social Security tax) is rising. 

• New Taxable Maximum: $184,500

• Previous Limit (2025): $176,100 

This change impacts higher-income workers. If you earn more than $176,100 in 2026, you will pay Social Security tax on an additional $8,400 of your income. Income earned above the $184,500 limit is not taxed for Social Security. This limit is based on the national average wage and helps ensure the long-term funding of the OASDI (Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance) program. 

How to get your COLA notice faster (online vs. mail) 

The SSA will begin mailing personalized COLA notices in early December 2025, but you don't have to wait for the post office. 

• The Fastest Way: My Social Security Account. By setting up a free and secure my Social Security account at www.ssa.gov/myaccount, you can view your official COLA notice, including your new benefit amount and the updated Medicare deduction, often days or weeks before the paper notice arrives. It's the most reliable way to get this vital information. 

• Paper Notices: If you prefer paper, your document will be sent via U.S. mail starting in December. To ensure you receive your new 2026 amount correctly, make sure the SSA has your most up-to-date mailing address. 

State-level variations  

Some states provide additional payments to supplement SSI benefits. These state-specific amounts and schedules can vary, so it is important to check with your local SSA office or state government for the exact details. You can use the Social Security Office Locator to find the phone number, address, business hours, and directions to your local field office.   

You can also call the SSA’s toll-free number at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778).   

Actionable financial tips  

1. Set Up Direct Deposit: Ensure timely access to your payments by signing up for direct deposit through your bank or the SSA.  

1. Create a Budget: Plan monthly expenses around your payment dates to avoid cash flow issues.  

1. Use Automatic Payments: Schedule bill payments for the day after your benefits arrive to avoid late fees.  

1. Emergency Savings: Build a small savings cushion for months with earlier payments, such as December.  

1. Seek Assistance: Explore additional resources like food banks, housing assistance, or state aid if you’re experiencing financial hardship.  

Plan your social security benefits with BenefitKarma

Before your COLA hits, it’s smart to verify your Social Security record. BenefitKarma offers a free C-File review, which helps ensure your earnings are correctly recorded so your benefits (and your COLA) are accurate.
Get Your Free C-File Review →

FAQS

When will I see my COLA increase?
The 2.8% COLA takes effect January 2026 for Social Security payments. SSI recipients receive theirs December 31, 2025.

Do I need to call the SSA to get my COLA increase?
No. The adjustment is automatic; no application or signature is required.

If I get my COLA notice online, will I still get a letter in the mail?
Yes. Initially you receive both. To stop paper notices, go to “My Profile” → “Notifications and Communications” → select secure online notices only.