Overview

• Independent forecasts from the Senior Citizens League and analyst Mary Johnson point to a 2.7%–2.8% cost-of-living adjustment for 2026.
• A 2.7% adjustment would add about $54 to the average monthly benefit of roughly $2,008, while 2.8% would be about $56.
• The Social Security Administration will set the official figure on October 15 after reviewing CPI-W inflation data for July through September.
• Medicare Part B premiums are projected to rise to roughly $206.50 in 2026, likely reducing beneficiaries’ net monthly gains.
• Other 2026 changes include the full retirement age reaching 67, an expected taxable wage base near $183,600, and higher estimated earnings-test limits of $24,360 and $64,800.