The Social Security Administration (SSA) announced on October 14, 2026 that benefits will rise 3.6 percent in 2027. The 2027 Social Security COLA (cost-of-living adjustment) applies to retirement, survivors, and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits, plus Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Here is what the increase means for your monthly check and what you should do before the end of the year.
How Much Will Social Security Increase in 2027?
The average retirement benefit will go up by about $75 per month. Your exact raise depends on what you receive now. For example, someone collecting $1,500 a month would get roughly $54 more.
The adjustment reaches about 76 million Americans in total. That includes nearly 72 million Social Security beneficiaries and about 7.3 million people on SSI. Some people receive both.
When Does the 2027 COLA Start?
The timing depends on which program pays you:
- Social Security retirement, survivors, and SSDI: The higher amount begins with benefits paid in January 2027.
- SSI: The increased payment arrives early, on December 31, 2026.
You do not need to apply or file anything. The COLA is applied automatically.
How to Get Your 2027 COLA Notice
This year, SSA is sending a simplified one-page COLA notice. It uses plain language and shows your exact new benefit amount, any deductions, and payment dates.
You can get it two ways:
- Online (fastest): Notices post to your my Social Security account in late November, up to three weeks before paper notices arrive. You can also sign up for text or email alerts when a new message lands in your Message Center.
- By mail: If you have not opted into paperless notices, yours will arrive in December.
Want it online? Create an account and enroll in paperless notices by November 18, 2026.
What About Medicare Premiums?
If you are enrolled in Medicare, your 2027 premium will appear in your my Social Security Message Center starting in late November. Because premiums are usually deducted from your check, your net increase may be smaller than 3.6 percent. Full details on 2027 Medicare changes will be posted at Medicare.gov.
How Is the COLA Calculated?
The Social Security Act ties the annual COLA to the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W). The Bureau of Labor Statistics measures that index. When everyday prices rise, benefits rise to help keep pace.
2027 COLA FAQ
Does the 2027 COLA apply to SSDI? Yes. SSDI recipients get the same 3.6 percent increase starting in January 2027.
Is the SSI increase paid early? Yes. SSI recipients will see the higher payment on December 31, 2026.
Where can I learn more? Visit SSA.gov/cola or review the 2027 COLA Fact Sheet.
Need Help With a Disability Claim?
If a health condition keeps you from working, SSDI benefits, including this year's increase, may be available to you. Get a free case evaluation to see if you qualify.
