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Social Security Sets 2.8% 2026 COLA, Retirees Disappointed

5/17/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Social Security Administration announced a 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for 2026, disappointing retirees.
Because COLAs follow third-quarter inflation, 2027 adjustment will be announced in October.
April’s CPI for urban wage earners and clerical workers rose 3.8%, prompting the Senior Citizens League to forecast 3.9% 2027 COLA.
Analysts warn that a COLA could be offset by higher prices and a Medicare Part B hike in 2027, prompting retirees to diversify income.

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Story summary

The Social Security Administration announced a 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for 2026, disappointing retirees.
Because COLAs follow third-quarter inflation, 2027 adjustment will be announced in October.
April’s CPI for urban wage earners and clerical workers rose 3.8%, prompting the Senior Citizens League to forecast 3.9% 2027 COLA.
Analysts warn that a COLA could be offset by higher prices and a Medicare Part B hike in 2027, prompting retirees to diversify income.