WASHINGTON — Millions of Americans who receive Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits will see a 2.8 % increase in their monthly checks beginning in January 2026, the Social Security Administration announced Friday. For the average retiree collecting around $2,000 a month, that works out to roughly an extra $56.
The announcement comes after a slight delay due to a partial government shutdown, which postponed the release of key inflation data the agency uses to calculate the adjustment. While the 2.8 % increase keeps pace with overall inflation, senior-advocacy groups say it may not be enough. Many older Americans say costs for healthcare, housing and energy are rising faster than that.
The COLA also must contend with rising charges elsewhere: for example, higher Medicare Part B premiums could offset much of the benefit increase for lower-income recipients. As the benefit boost takes effect in 2026, seniors and policymakers alike are watching closely how far it will stretch in today’s economy.
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