Social Security COLA for 2026

A cost-of-living adjustment, or COLA, is an inflation-based increase rolled out annually to all recipients of Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). For 2026, the Social Security COLA is 2.8%. We'll explain below exactly what that means for recipients.

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How Much Do I Need to Retire Comfortably?

The end of work doesn't mean the bills stop. How much should you save for a great retirement?

How Much Money Should I Have Saved by 25?

Young people should have this much saved by age 25 for a comfortable retirement.

History of Social Security COLA Increases by Year

See how the COLA for each year has changed from 1975 to 2026.

Everything You Need to Know About Social Security Benefits in 2025

This government program supports those who need it, using funds from specific taxes.

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About the Author

Kailey Hagen, CFP, is a contributing Motley Fool retirement analyst covering Social Security, Medicare, and retirement planning. Before The Motley Fool, Kailey was a research analyst for Reviews.com focusing on credit and banking products. She is a Certified Financial Planner® and holds a bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

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