Social Security payments are changing in 2026 — here’s how your monthly check could shift

Social Security benefits will increase by 2.8% in 2026 to help 75 million Americans fight inflation. This Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) boosts monthly checks for retirees, disabled workers, and SSI recipients. Most beneficiaries will see higher payments starting in January. However, SSI recipients get their first raise on December 31, 2025, due to the New Year’s Day holiday.