Social Security COLA Slated at ~2.7–2.8%

The Social Security Administration and major sources say beneficiaries will receive a cost-of-living adjustment in their January 2026 checks after a delayed announcement, at roughly 2.7–2.8% (about $54–$56 monthly). The modest, CPI-linked increase follows larger COLAs of 8.7% in 2023, 3.2% in 2024 and 2.5% in 2025. One outlet mistakenly reported a 28% COLA, but SSA commentary and multiple major reports corrected that figure. Many seniors and AARP polling say a roughly 3% boost won’t cover rising expenses, citing higher rent, healthcare and food costs. Financial planners advise some near-retirees to use savings as a “bridge” to delay claiming benefits (up to age 70) to secure higher lifetime payments, and firms are offering seminars on taxes, healthcare and Social Security strategies.