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Social Security Benefits to Increase 2.8% in 2026

12/29/2025

Summary

Social Security Increases

The Social Security Administration will apply a 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment to Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits in January 2026, affecting nearly 71 million Americans.
SSI recipients will receive their first adjusted payment on December 31, 2025.
The average retiree benefit will rise from $2,015 to $2,071.
SSI payments rise to $994 for individuals and $1,491 for couples, and Medicare Part B premiums rise to $202.90.

History

Historical Context

The Social Security Act, signed by President Franklin D. Roosevelt on August 14, 1935, aimed to combat the high poverty rates among the elderly during the Great Depression, which exceeded 50%. Initially covering 50 million workers, the program has evolved significantly, now providing support to nearly 71 million beneficiaries, highlighting its critical role in American social policy and poverty alleviation.

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Social Security Increases

The Social Security Administration will apply a 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment to Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits in January 2026, affecting nearly 71 million Americans.
SSI recipients will receive their first adjusted payment on December 31, 2025.
The average retiree benefit will rise from $2,015 to $2,071.
SSI payments rise to $994 for individuals and $1,491 for couples, and Medicare Part B premiums rise to $202.90.

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