Social Security payments increase in 2026

In 2026, Social Security benefits will increase by 2.8% for 75 million Americans.

This is called a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) and helps benefits keep up with inflation.

The maximum amount of earnings subject to Social Security tax has also increased to $184,500.

For workers under retirement age, the earnings limit is now $24,480, and for those reaching retirement age, it's $65,160.

Payments will be made on the second, third, or fourth Wednesday of each month, depending on the recipient's birth date.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments will be made on the 1st of each month, unless it's a holiday or weekend, in which case they will be made on the last day of the previous month.

The increase means that retired workers will receive $2,071 per month instead of $2,015, and other beneficiaries will also see increases in their payments.