COLA Increase in 2026
The maximum benefit for a worker claiming Social Security at their full retirement age will rise from $4,018 per month in 2025 to $4,152 per month in 2026. Workers who delay claiming until age 70 and meet the highest-earning criteria can receive up to $5,181 per month in 2026, according to the Social Security Administration.
Furthermore, the Social Security Administration (SSA) projects that the average monthly benefit for all retired workers will increase from about $2,015 to approximately $2,071 in 2026.
It won’t be long until your official notice about the 2026 COLA increase arrives in your mailbox or is available in your online account, confirming your new payment amount for the year ahead.
What are your thoughts on the 2.8% COLA increase for 2026? Inflation remains a challenge for many, and we’re interested to hear your perspective.
Feel free to share your thoughts in the comment section below.
