Social Security Announces Official 3.6 Percent COLA for 2027, Adding $75 Per Month on Average
The Social Security Administration confirmed on October 14 that benefits will increase by 3.6 percent in January 2027, adding about $75 per month to the average retirement check. The adjustment affects nearly 72 million Social Security beneficiaries and 7.3 million SSI recipients.
The Social Security Administration confirmed on October 14, 2026, that benefits will increase by 3.6 percent starting in January 2027, adding about $75 per month to the average retirement check.
The cost-of-living adjustment affects nearly 72 million Social Security beneficiaries. Supplemental Security Income recipients, about 7.3 million people, will see increased payments beginning December 31, 2026.
The SSA calculates the COLA using the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers, measuring the increase from the third quarter of 2025 through the third quarter of 2026.
The agency also announced several other changes for 2027. The maximum amount of earnings subject to Social Security tax will rise to $192,300. Workers younger than full retirement age can earn up to $25,560 before benefits are reduced, with $1 withheld for every $2 earned above that threshold. For those reaching full retirement age in 2027, the limit rises to $67,920.
The Substantial Gainful Activity threshold for non-blind individuals with disabilities will increase to $1,770 per month, and to $2,950 per month for blind individuals.
Beneficiaries can view personalized COLA notices through their 'my Social Security' online accounts beginning in late November 2026. Those without online accounts will receive paper notices by mail in December.
The 3.6 percent adjustment is lower than the 4.7 percent some analysts had projected earlier in the year, reflecting a modest cooling in inflation.
