Social Security checks go up 3.6% in January
It's the biggest yearly increase since 2023. For the average retiree that's about $75 more a month. Here's when it arrives and how to see your exact amount.
What is the 2027 COLA?
The Social Security Administration announced on October 14, 2026 that benefits will increase by 3.6% starting in January 2027. The cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) is based on the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W) measured from July to September 2026 compared with the same period in 2025.
The 2027 COLA of 3.6% is higher than the 2.8% increase paid in January 2026 and the highest since 2023's 8.7% adjustment.
How much more will I get?
The exact amount depends on your current benefit. Here are some typical examples:
Source: SSA press release, October 14, 2026. Averages are rounded.
When will I see the higher payment?
The first payments at the higher rate go out in January 2027. The exact date depends on your birthday:
- SSI recipients — December 31, 2026 (paid early because January 1 is a federal holiday)
- Social Security — born before May 1997, or getting both SS and SSI — January 3, 2027
- Birthday 1st–10th — Wednesday January 8, 2027
- Birthday 11th–20th — Wednesday January 13, 2027
- Birthday 21st–31st — Wednesday January 20, 2027
See your exact new amount before the letter arrives
SSA sends COLA notices by mail in December. If you have a my Social Security account and opt in to digital notices by November 18, 2026, you can see your new amount online up to three weeks before the letter arrives.
Nothing is required — the increase is automatic. If you want to see your new amount early, log in to my Social Security and turn on electronic notices before November 18.
Create or log in to my Social SecurityWhat about Medicare Part B premiums?
Medicare Part B premiums for 2027 are set separately by CMS and were not announced on the same date as the COLA. The 2026 standard premium is $185 per month. The 2027 figure is expected by late November 2026. For most people on Medicare, the Part B premium is deducted directly from their Social Security payment, so the net increase they see may be slightly less than 3.6%.
Will the taxable maximum change?
Yes. The maximum earnings subject to Social Security taxes rises from $184,500 in 2026 to $192,300 in 2027 — an increase of 4.2%. Workers earning more than the current maximum will pay Social Security taxes on more of their income next year. Most workers earn well below this threshold and will see no change.