Social Security Payments to Rise in 2026 — How Much Could Millions of Beneficiaries Receive?

Social Security payments in 2026 could rise, according to The Senior Citizens League (TSCL).

This increase, tied to the 2026 Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA), will put more money in the hands of millions but may not fully offset inflation.

The SSA will set the final adjustment in the fall, determining how much Social Security checks will grow.

In 2026, millions of SSA beneficiaries are expected to receive an estimated 2.7% increase in their payments.

The official announcement is scheduled for October.

The projection is based on the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W) from July to September.

Social Security payments in 2026: Will there be an inflation adjustment?

Social Security Payments to Rise in 2026 – PHOTO: Shutterstock

Although the increase aims to maintain retirees’ purchasing power, inflation is hovering around 3% and could rise further.

To keep in mind:

In 2025, the adjustment was 2.5%, which translated into about $49 more per month for the average retiree.

Next year’s increase would be slightly higher but may still not be enough to cover rising prices.

According to experts, new tariffs imposed by Trump would make products such as cars, coffee, and imported beverages more expensive.

A Yale study also notes that consumers are already facing an average tariff rate of 18.6%, the highest since the Great Depression.

This puts extra pressure on the budgets of those who depend on SSA benefits.

How the increase will impact Social Security checks

Social Security Payments to Rise in 2026 – PHOTO: Shutterstock

A 2.7% adjustment means more money in each monthly payment.

For some beneficiaries, it will help cover part of the price increases in food, transportation, and medical services.

However, if prices rise more than expected, this increase may not actually improve purchasing power.

Statements on the adjustment and the economic situation

“With the cost-of-living adjustment announcement right around the corner, seniors are holding their breath… Many believe it doesn’t reflect the inflation they experience,” said Shannon Benton of The Senior Citizens League.

“On the 90th anniversary of this historic program, I pledge to always defend Social Security,” said President Donald Trump in regards to the rise.

Expectations for the official COLA announcement

The final percentage for the 2026 COLA increase will be confirmed in October.

Attention will focus on whether the SSA revises its calculation in the event of a sharp rise in inflation.

TSCL’s projections have increased each month since May, which could indicate a risk of higher prices in 2026.