How Much Social Security’s 2026.The 2026 Social Security cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) is forecast to bring a benefit increase of approximately 2.7% for retirees aged 62 to 80, slightly higher than the 2.5% COLA in 2025. This adjustment is designed to help Social Security beneficiaries keep pace with inflation and rising living costs.
For the average retired worker, this translates to an increase of about $54 per month, raising the typical monthly benefit from around $2,005 to roughly $2,059. This article breaks down what this means across different ages, explains the potential impact of government operations on announcement timings, and covers how these changes affect retirees and linked programs.
2026 Social Security COLA: Overview
| Aspect | Details |
| Expected COLA percentage | Approximately 2.7% |
| Average monthly benefit (2025) | About $2,005 for retired workers |
| Benefit increase per month | Roughly $54 increase for the average retiree |
| Age range analyzed | Retirees aged 62 to 80 |
| Announcement date | Official announcement delayed to October 24, 2025 (from Oct 15 due to government shutdown) |
| Payments timing | COLA applied starting January 2026, payments will reflect in February 2026 |
| Impact of government shutdown | Announcement delay possible, but payments and COLA calculations continue unaffected |
| Programs continuing during shutdown | Social Security payments, Medicare, Medicaid, SNAP remain operational |
What is the 2026 Social Security Cost-of-Living Adjustment?
The Social Security COLA is an annual benefit increase that offsets inflation’s impact on retirees’ fixed incomes. It is based on changes in the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W).
For 2026, economists and senior advocacy groups like The Senior Citizens League project a COLA of about 2.7%, up from 2.5% in 2025. This means Social Security payments will rise to reflect higher costs of living, helping retirees maintain purchasing power.
How Much Will Benefits Increase by Age?
The typical monthly benefit varies by age, influencing the dollar amount of COLA retirees receive. Benefits tend to grow the longer a retiree delays claiming Social Security up to age 70.
| Retiree Age | Average Benefit Before COLA | Average Benefit After 2.7% COLA | Monthly Increase |
| 62 | $1,377 | $1,414 | $37 |
| 65 | $1,613 | $1,657 | $44 |
| 67 | $1,963 | $2,016 | $53 |
| 68 | $2,004 | $2,058 | $54 |
| 70 | $2,188 | $2,247 | $59 |
| 75 | $2,085 | $2,141 | $56 |
| 80 | $2,038 | $2,093 | $55 |
This pattern shows how benefits increase as retirees delay claiming, peaking around age 70, then slightly taper as some eligible workers age further.
Impact of the Government Shutdown on the COLA Announcement and Payments
Due to a federal government shutdown extending past the planned announcement date of October 15, 2025, the Social Security Administration (SSA) delayed the official 2026 COLA announcement to October 24, 2025.
Despite this, inflation data for September 2025, which is necessary for calculation, is still published because it is an essential government function. Social Security payments and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits are funded through trust funds and will continue without interruption.
While the announcement delay may affect how quickly beneficiaries can access updated information online or via mail, actual benefit payments with the new COLA will begin on schedule in January 2026, reflected in the February 2026 checks. Customers might experience longer wait times for SSA services during the shutdown.
Other Programs Remaining Operational
Medicare, Medicaid, and SNAP (food assistance) programs are deemed essential. These continue operating without interruption during the government shutdown, though new applications or appeals might face delays due to reduced personnel. This stability is beneficial for retirees relying on these linked programs for healthcare and food security.
Why the COLA Matters for Retirees Aged 62 to 80
For retirees aged 62 to 80, the COLA is vital for maintaining financial security as the cost of essentials like groceries, housing, and medical expenses rise. Since many retirees live on a fixed income, even a modest increase can help cover inflation-driven expenses.
The COLA helps preserve the purchasing power of Social Security benefits, contributing to the ability to afford basic needs. For spouses or couples where both partners receive benefits, the combined increase can amount to over $100 more in monthly income, easing budget pressures.
Planning for Retirement Beyond the COLA
Although a 2.7% increase provides some relief, experts urge retirees not to rely solely on Social Security COLAs to keep up with rising costs. Factors such as increasing Medicare Part B premiums may offset benefit gains. Therefore, supplementing Social Security with private savings and other income sources is recommended for a more secure retirement.
Key Social Security 2026 COLA Facts
This 2026 COLA update offers critical financial support to millions of retirees, helping them cope with rising living expenses and maintain their livelihoods amid ongoing economic shifts. Beneficiaries should monitor SSA communications and plan accordingly to maximize their retirement security.
FAQs About Social Security’s 2026 COLA
The official COLA announcement was delayed to October 24, 2025, due to the government shutdown.
It is projected to be about 2.7%, leading to an approximate $54 increase for the average monthly benefit.
No, payments will continue as scheduled since they are funded through trust funds.
It affects all eligible beneficiaries, but this overview focuses on retirees ages 62 to 80.
COLA helps, but rising costs such as healthcare might still outpace the increase.
Yes, Medicare, Medicaid, and SNAP stay operational but may process new applications slower.