In 2026, Social Security retirees are likely to receive a 2.7% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), which is higher than the 2.5% increase in 2025. However, Medicare premiums are projected to rise significantly, reducing the impact of the COLA on retirees’ payments. A larger COLA, while seemingly positive, indicates higher inflation levels, which can be detrimental to fixed-income seniors. Retirees should prepare for potential disappointment despite the apparent benefits of a larger COLA. The official announcement is set for October 24, 2025, offering insight into seniors’ financial outlook for the coming year.

Read more at Nasdaq: Social Security COLA 2026 vs. 2025: How the Numbers Stack Up