Updates to Social Security COLA 2026: What retirees

In 2026, Social Security benefits will get a lower COLA rise due to possible inflationary effects.

The purpose of Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLA) is to help Social Security benefits keep pace with inflation while maintaining the purchasing power of recipients.

The COLA for 2026 is anticipated to be lower than in other years due to fluctuating inflation levels, which will result in a lesser benefit increase for many recipients. This is the first time that retired workers have not seen a higher wage boost since 2021.