The Social Security Administration (SSA) has announced a 2.8 percent increase in benefits for more than 75 million Americans starting in 2026. The 2026 Cost-of-living adjustment applies to both Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments, helping recipients better keep up with rising living costs.
For retirees, the 2.8% increase means an average boost of about $56 per month beginning in January 2026, a welcome change for those relying on monthly benefits.
What’s Driving the 2.8% Increase
Every year, the SSA calculates a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) to reflect inflation and ensure benefits maintain their real-world value. Over the past decade, COLA increases have averaged around 3.1%, with a 2.5% increase in 2025.
This new 2.8 percent increase is slightly higher, signaling a modest rise in benefit checks for 71 million Social Security beneficiaries starting in January 2026. Recipients of SSI will see their increased payments a little earlier on December 31, 2025.
“Social Security is a promise kept,” said SSA Commissioner Frank J. Bisignano. “The annual cost-of-living adjustment ensures benefits reflect today’s economic realities and continue to provide a foundation of security.”
When to Expect Your Notice
The SSA will begin notifying beneficiaries about their new payment amounts in early December 2025. Notices will arrive by mail or digitally through my Social Security accounts.
This year’s notice is designed to be simpler and more personalized, a single page summarizing your exact 2.8% increase, new benefit total, and any deductions.
If you prefer faster updates, log in to your my Social Security account to view your COLA notice online. You can also sign up for text or email alerts when new messages, like your benefit update, are available.
To receive digital notices, opt out of paper mail by November 19, 2025.
Your my Social Security account also allows you to:
- Request a replacement Social Security card
- Check your benefits and claim status
- View your SSA-1099 tax form
- Access your 2026 2.8% increase notice securely online
If you haven’t already, take a few minutes to create your account so you can easily track your benefits, stay informed about your 2.8 percent increase, and get your updates faster and more securely.
