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SSA to Announce 2027 Social Security COLA Oct. 14

8/16/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The U.S. Social Security Administration will announce the 2027 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) on Oct. 14 after September CPI-W data.
The Senior Citizens League projects a 3.6% COLA, down from 3.8%, while AARP expects 3.5% and analyst Mary Johnson forecasts 3.4%.
A 3.6% COLA would raise the average benefit from $2,071 by $70-$75 to about $2,146, topping this year’s 2.8% rise and the largest increase since the 8.7% jump in 2023.

History

Historical Context

Facing a 1983 crisis that projected the trust fund would run out by 1983, Congress, guided by the National Commission on Social Security Reform chaired by Alan Greenspan, passed amendments that made COLAs automatic, taxed higher-income benefits, and raised the full-retirement age. The 1972 law had already introduced a 20% benefit boost for 27.8 million workers, setting the stage for today’s 2023 COLA debate.

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Story summary

The U.S. Social Security Administration will announce the 2027 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) on Oct. 14 after September CPI-W data.
The Senior Citizens League projects a 3.6% COLA, down from 3.8%, while AARP expects 3.5% and analyst Mary Johnson forecasts 3.4%.
A 3.6% COLA would raise the average benefit from $2,071 by $70-$75 to about $2,146, topping this year’s 2.8% rise and the largest increase since the 8.7% jump in 2023.

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