Social Security 2026 Changes
Stay informed about all Social Security changes taking effect in 2026. From COLA increases and maximum benefit amounts to earnings limits and Medicare premiums - get the complete guide to what's changing and how it affects your benefits.
2026 Figures Announcement
The official 2026 Social Security figures, including the COLA increase, maximum benefits, and earnings limits, will be announced by the Social Security Administration in October 2025. This page will be updated with the official numbers once they are released. The information below reflects the typical changes and what to expect.
What's Changing in 2026?
Each year, the Social Security Administration adjusts various program parameters to account for inflation, wage growth, and changes in the cost of living. These adjustments affect millions of Americans receiving retirement, disability, survivor, and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits.
The most significant change is the annual Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA), which increases benefit payments to help beneficiaries maintain their purchasing power. Additionally, the Social Security Administration updates earnings limits, maximum benefit amounts, the taxable wage base, and work credit requirements.
Understanding these changes is crucial for retirement planning, tax preparation, and making informed decisions about when to claim benefits. Whether you're already receiving benefits or planning for the future, staying informed about 2026 changes helps you maximize your Social Security income.
Key Changes for 2026
Major updates affecting Social Security beneficiaries in 2026
COLA Increase
Annual cost-of-living adjustment to keep pace with inflation
Maximum Benefits
Higher maximum retirement benefit amounts for high earners
Earnings Limit
Updated earnings test limits for those under full retirement age
Taxable Wage Base
Maximum earnings subject to Social Security tax
Medicare Premiums
Part B premium amounts and IRMAA thresholds
Work Credits
Earnings needed to earn Social Security work credits
Changes by Benefit Type
How 2026 updates affect different types of Social Security benefits
Retirement Benefits
- COLA increase applied to all retirement benefits
- Updated maximum benefit amounts at FRA and age 70
- Adjusted earnings test limits for early claimers
- Delayed retirement credit calculations
Disability Benefits
- SSDI benefits increase with COLA
- Updated substantial gainful activity (SGA) limits
- Trial work period earnings thresholds
- Family maximum benefit adjustments
Survivor Benefits
- Survivor benefit amounts increase with COLA
- Updated widow(er) benefit calculations
- Children's benefit adjustments
- Parent's benefit updates
SSI Benefits
- Federal benefit rate increases with COLA
- Updated income and resource limits
- State supplement adjustments
- Deemed income calculations
2026 Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA)
Understanding how your benefits will increase
How COLA is Calculated
The COLA is based on the percentage increase in the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W) from the third quarter of the previous year to the third quarter of the current year. The Social Security Administration announces the COLA in October, and it takes effect in January of the following year.
When You'll See the Increase
SSI Recipients
Receive increased payment on December 31, 2025 (for January 2026)
Social Security
Receive increased payment in January 2026 based on birth date
Who Gets COLA
- Retirement benefit recipients
- Disability (SSDI) benefit recipients
- Survivor benefit recipients
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Social Security changes in 2026
What is the Social Security COLA increase for 2026?
What is the Social Security COLA increase for 2026?
What is the maximum Social Security benefit in 2026?
What is the maximum Social Security benefit in 2026?
What is the Social Security earnings limit for 2026?
What is the Social Security earnings limit for 2026?
What is the Social Security tax wage base for 2026?
What is the Social Security tax wage base for 2026?
Will full retirement age change in 2026?
Will full retirement age change in 2026?
What are the SSI payment amounts for 2026?
What are the SSI payment amounts for 2026?
How much will Social Security increase in 2026?
How much will Social Security increase in 2026?
When will I receive my increased Social Security payment in 2026?
When will I receive my increased Social Security payment in 2026?
What is the Medicare Part B premium for 2026?
What is the Medicare Part B premium for 2026?
How do I calculate my Social Security benefits for 2026?
How do I calculate my Social Security benefits for 2026?
Planning for 2026 Changes
How to prepare for upcoming Social Security updates
Review Your Benefit Statement
Create or log in to your my Social Security account to review your earnings record and estimated benefits. Ensure all information is accurate before the new year.
Adjust Your Budget
Once the COLA is announced, calculate your new benefit amount and adjust your budget accordingly. Remember to account for any Medicare premium changes that may offset the increase.
Consider Claiming Strategies
If you're approaching retirement age, review how 2026 changes affect your claiming strategy. Higher maximum benefits and earnings limits may influence your decision.
Update Tax Withholding
If you have taxes withheld from your Social Security benefits, review your withholding amount after the COLA increase to ensure it still meets your needs.
Stay Updated on 2026 Changes
Get the latest information about Social Security changes as they're announced. Create your my Social Security account to access personalized benefit estimates and updates.
Related Resources
Learn more about Social Security benefits and planning