The monthly benefit of the Social Security recipients, including the retirees falling within the 62–80 age bracket, will rise by 2.8% in 2026 with the Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) index. This modification will help retirees keep up with inflation and increasing prices, providing essential financial assistance to millions of Americans who receive Social Security retirement benefits. The rise applies to all qualified beneficiaries — all retirees, regardless of their age, will experience an increment in their monthly earnings.
COLA Increase Decoded: 2.8%
The 2.8% COLA translates to an average monthly Social Security benefit increase of about $56, depending on each individual’s current benefit rate. For instance, someone receiving $2,000 per month will see their monthly payment rise to approximately $2,056 in 2026. This adjustment is not limited to retirement benefits — recipients of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) will also benefit, impacting a wide section of the population.
Effects on Diverse Ages
The increase applies to all qualified beneficiaries aged 62 to 80 and older, regardless of when they began receiving benefits. Early retirees at 62, those at full retirement age, and retirees who waited until 70 to claim will all receive a proportional raise. This ensures that Social Security benefits maintain their purchasing power across all retirement and disability levels.
Effective Date and Payment Schedule
The new COLA rates will take effect with the January 2026 payment, which is typically issued in December 2025. Beneficiaries will receive their revised monthly benefits on their regular payment dates via direct deposit or mailed checks. This annual adjustment helps retirees manage their finances better and keep up with inflation-related expenses.
2026 Projected Social Security Benefit Growth
Age Group
Average Monthly Benefit 2025
Estimated 2026 Benefit (2.8% Increase)
Monthly Increase
62
$1,500
$1,542
$42
65
$1,800
$1,850
$50
70
$2,300
$2,364
$64
80+
$2,500
$2,570
$70
FAQs
Who will get the Social Security COLA in 2026?
All Social Security recipients — retirees aged 62 and older, along with SSDI and SSI beneficiaries — are eligible for the 2026 COLA increase.
How much will benefits rise in 2026?
Benefits will grow by 2.8%, translating to an average monthly increase of around $56.
When will the higher benefits be paid?
The new rates will apply to the January 2026 payment, typically disbursed in December 2025.
This COLA increase is crucial to ensuring that Social Security recipients can sustain themselves amid inflationary pressures. It helps retirees cover daily living expenses without compromising their standard of living. Being aware of the increase and its payment schedule will allow beneficiaries to plan ahead for the coming year.
