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Social Security benefits will increase by 2.8% in 2026. This Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) will begin with payments in January 2026 and is based on changes in the Consumer Price Index. For the average retired worker, this means an increase of about $56 per month. 

• What it means: Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments will be 2.8% higher for 2026. 
• Impact on average benefits: The average monthly retirement benefit is expected to rise to about $2,071, from $2,015 in 2025. 
• Payment timing: The COLA will be reflected in checks received in January 2026. For SSI recipients, the first increased payment will be on December 31, 2025.