Story perspectives

Government Shutdown Delays 2026 Social Security COLA Announcement

10/16/2025

Summary

Story summary

The government shutdown postponed the 2026 Social Security COLA announcement to October 24, aligning with the September CPI release.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics recalled furloughed workers to finalize the CPI report.
Experts predict a 2.7% COLA, increasing the average monthly benefit by about $54.
The Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget forecasts a 2.8% COLA.
Concerns remain about whether it will sufficiently cover rising living costs.

History

Historical Context

The Social Security Amendments of 1972, signed by President Nixon, established automatic cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) to protect beneficiaries from inflation, which reached 8.5% that year. This legislation aimed to unify various state welfare programs under federal management. Today, ongoing discussions about COLA adjustments reflect persistent economic pressures on beneficiaries, highlighting the program's critical role in supporting the elderly and disabled.

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Story summary

The government shutdown postponed the 2026 Social Security COLA announcement to October 24, aligning with the September CPI release.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics recalled furloughed workers to finalize the CPI report.
Experts predict a 2.7% COLA, increasing the average monthly benefit by about $54.
The Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget forecasts a 2.8% COLA.
Concerns remain about whether it will sufficiently cover rising living costs.

1 / 2