Social Security recipients received a 2.8% increase in monthly benefits due to inflation. The wage base limit for payroll taxes rose by $8,400. Early claimers can now earn more before facing the retirement earnings test. The annual cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) uses the CPI-W to determine the increase. The COLA for 2026 is 2.8%, up from 2025’s 2.76%. The wage base limit for Social Security payroll taxes is now $184,500. Higher earners will contribute more with this increase. If you earn over the threshold, benefits will be withheld until full retirement age. Discover “Social Security secrets” to maximize retirement income. Learn more about these strategies with Stock Advisor. View the “Social Security secrets” for more information. Social Security is undergoing key changes in 2026, including benefit increases and payroll tax adjustments.

Read more at Yahoo Finance: Social Security Is Undergoing Key Changes in 2026. Here’s Everything You Need to Know