Social Security benefits are likely to lose purchasing power next year despite a historic cost-of-living adjustment (COLA).

Here are the exact payment dates for Social Security and SSI in January 2026, plus details on the new 2.8% COLA increase.

Social Security rules have some changes in store for 2026, such as tax rules and cost-of-living adjustments. Here's what retirees need to know.

Here’s a look at four major Social Security changes to be aware of in 2026. Each year, Social Security benefits are subject to an annual cost-of-living adjustment based on inflation rates to ensure that monthly payments keep pace with rising costs. In October, the SSA announced that beneficiaries will see a 2.8% increase for 2026.

For seniors on Social Security, there’s perhaps no more important an announcement each year than a COLA (cost-of-living adjustment) announcement. This year’s COLA announcement was actually delayed due to the government shutdown.

Tens of millions of Social Security and Supplemental Security beneficiaries will soon receive their first, slightly larger check of the new year, thanks to the 2026 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA).