How much will your benefits increase?
2026 COLA Announced
Here's what it means for you
The Social Security Administration announced its 2026 cost of living adjustment — or COLA — last week. Retirees will see a 2.8% increase in their benefits in 2026.
But have you ever wondered how COLA is calculated? The Social Security Administration uses Consumer Price Index data from the third quarter — July, August and September — to figure out how much prices changed on average. It compares that number to the prior year's, and the difference is how they get the upcoming year's COLA.
This year's increase means the average Social Security recipient will get an extra $56 a month starting in January. You'll soon be able to find out your specific amount on your My Social Security account. But if you want to know now, you'll have to do some math. We promise it's easy.
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