The Social Security Administration has confirmed a 2.8 percent Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) that will raise monthly benefit payments beginning December 31. This increase impacts retirees, spouses, survivors, SSI recipients and disabled beneficiaries under SSDI. With inflation still affecting essential living expenses, the updated benefit amount is designed to help Americans keep pace with rising costs.
What the 2.8% COLA Increase Means for Beneficiaries
The COLA adjustment ensures Social Security benefits reflect changes in inflation, measured by the CPI-W index. A 2.8 percent increase may seem modest, but it provides meaningful financial support for millions relying on Social Security as a primary income source. The updated payments will begin at the end of December and continue throughout 2026.
New $672 Monthly Payment: Who Will Receive It?
| Beneficiary Category | Updated Monthly Amount* |
|---|---|
| SSI Individuals | Up to $672 per month |
| SSI Couples | Increased combined benefit (higher than 2025 rates) |
| SSDI Workers | Benefit increases based on earnings history |
| Retired Workers | COLA-adjusted monthly benefits beginning January |
| Survivors | Higher payouts aligned with 2.8% COLA |
*Exact amounts vary based on individual earnings, prior benefits and living arrangements.
The $672 payment applies primarily to individual SSI beneficiaries, reflecting the 2.8% COLA increase added to the federal SSI base rate. Couples and essential persons will also see corresponding increases.
Why SSA Approved a 2.8% COLA for This Cycle
Social Security calculates COLA adjustments based on inflation trends during the July–September measurement period of the CPI-W index. Even though inflation slowed compared to previous years, essential expenses such as rent, food, medical care and transportation remain elevated. The 2.8 percent increase helps offset these rising costs.
When Will the New Payments Start?
SSI beneficiaries will receive their first higher payment on December 31, as SSI always pays the following month’s benefit early when holidays or weekends apply. Retirees, SSDI beneficiaries and survivors will see their increases reflected in January payments, based on their scheduled payment dates.
How to Check Your Updated 2026 Payment Amount
Beneficiaries can view their personalized updated benefits by logging into their my Social Security account. The portal includes:
- December COLA notice
- New January payment amount
- Updated annual payment summary
SSI recipients may also receive mailed notices confirming their new $672 monthly benefit.
Who Benefits Most From the Increase
Low-income seniors, disabled adults, individuals with limited resources and survivors receiving SSI or SSDI will feel the impact most. Retirees with lower lifetime earnings also benefit significantly from COLA adjustments as these increases form a key part of their annual income stability.
One Quick Takeaway Section
- Social Security payments will increase to $672 for SSI individuals beginning December 31, with a 2.8% COLA boosting benefits for retirees, survivors, SSDI recipients and couples throughout 2026.
Conclusion: The 2.8 percent COLA ensures Social Security keeps pace with rising prices, offering millions of Americans a stronger financial foundation for 2026. With updated payments beginning December 31, beneficiaries should review their new amounts through the SSA online portal to understand how the changes impact their monthly budget.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available SSA information and COLA projections. Beneficiaries should refer to official SSA notices for their exact updated amounts.