Archive · 30 Dec 2025
Social Security Changes in 2026: COLA Increase and Medicare Hikes
In 2026, people who get Social Security will see a small increase of 2.8% in their benefits, which is about $56 more each month.
However, this increase is less than the 3% inflation from the past year, so it might not cover the rising costs of things like food and bills.
Medicare Part B premiums will also go up by about $18, which is a 9.6% increase, making the new premium $202.90 per month.
The deductible for Medicare Part B will also increase by 10%, reaching $283.
These changes mean that while benefits are going up, the costs for healthcare are also increasing, which might make it harder for some people to make ends meet.
Social Security benefits will increase by 2.8% in 2026, adding about $56 per month for the average recipient.
The COLA increase is outpaced by 3% inflation, potentially reducing the purchasing power of beneficiaries.
Medicare Part B premiums will rise by $18, a 9.6% increase, to $202.90 per month.
Medicare Part B deductibles will increase by 10% to $283.
These changes reflect annual adjustments for cost-of-living and healthcare costs.
- Who
- Social Security and Medicare recipients
- What
- Changes in benefits and costs for 2026
- When
- Starting January 2026
- Where
- United States
- Why
- Annual adjustments for cost-of-living and Medicare premiums
- COLA Increase
- 2.8%
- Average Monthly Increase
- $56
- Inflation Rate (Past Year)
- 3%
- Medicare Part B Premium Increase
- $18 (9.6%)
- New Medicare Part B Premium
- $202.90
- Medicare Deductible Increase
- 10%
- New Medicare Deductible
- $283