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5d ago

Social Security Sets 2026 COLA at 2.8%, Lifting Average Checks by About $56 a Month

Higher Medicare Part B premiums could absorb much of the increase.

Social Security benefits increasing 2.8% in January 2026.
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In 2025, more than 72.5 million people saw a 2.5% COLA hike for their Social Security and Supplemental Security Income benefits.

Overview

  • Nearly 75 million beneficiaries will receive the 2.8% adjustment, with Social Security payments reflecting the change in January 2026 and SSI benefits starting Dec. 31, 2025.
  • The Medicare Trustees project the standard Part B premium to rise to about $206.50 in 2026, and the hold harmless rule will prevent net Social Security checks from falling even as higher premiums offset gains.
  • The final COLA followed a delayed September inflation release caused by the federal shutdown, with CPI showing 3% year-over-year inflation and a 4.1% monthly jump in gas prices.
  • The Social Security earnings test limits for 2026 are set at $23,480 for those under full retirement age for the full year and $65,160 in the year someone reaches full retirement age.
  • The increase is automatic under law, applies to retirement, disability, survivors’ benefits and SSI, and beneficiaries will receive updated payment notices beginning in December.