Millions of Americans who rely on Social Security are set to see major payment changes beginning in 2026, with higher monthly checks and adjusted payment dates driven by the latest cost-of-living adjustment.
The Social Security Administration has confirmed that about 75 million people will receive a 2.8% increase in Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits as inflation adjustments take effect in the new year.
COLA increase brings higher monthly checks
The 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) is designed to help benefits keep pace with rising prices and will apply to both Social Security and SSI recipients.
Key benefit changes include:
- SSI for individuals: increases from $967 in 2025 to $994 in 2026
- SSI for couples: rises from $1,450 to $1,491 per month
- Average retired worker benefit: increases to $2,071, up from $2,015
- Maximum benefit at full retirement age: climbs to $4,152, up from $4,018
- Maximum benefit at age 70: rises from $5,108 to $5,251
Nearly 7.5 million SSI recipients will see the higher payment reflected Dec. 31, when the final SSI payment of 2025 is issued early because Jan. 1 is a federal holiday.
Almost 71 million additional Americans will begin receiving higher Social Security payments starting in January 2026.
Why some payments arrive early
SSI payments are typically sent on the first of each month. However, when the first falls on a weekend or federal holiday, payments are issued earlier.
As a result:
- January SSI payments will arrive on Dec. 31
- February SSI payments will be sent on Jan. 30, since Feb. 1 falls on a weekend
Social Security payment schedule: January and February 2026
Social Security retirement and disability benefits are paid based on a recipient’s birth date.
January 2026
- Jan. 14: Birth dates 1–10
- Jan. 21: Birth dates 11–20
- Jan. 28: Birth dates 21–31
- Jan. 30: SSI payment
February 2026
- Feb. 11: Birth dates 1–10
- Feb. 18: Birth dates 11–20
- Feb. 25: Birth dates 21–31
- Feb. 27: SSI payment
Updated benefit amounts by household type
According to the SSA’s estimates for January 2026:
- Retired workers: $2,071 per month
- Aged couples (both receiving benefits): $3,208
- Widowed mothers with two children: $3,898
What recipients should know
The 2026 COLA provides some relief from inflation, but experts note it may still fall short of rising housing, food and healthcare costs. Beneficiaries are encouraged to review their updated benefit statements and ensure direct deposit information is current to avoid delays.
Stay informed and plan ahead. Social Security remains a lifeline for over 71 million Americans — knowing your payment dates and any upcoming changes is key to staying financially secure. If you’re unsure about your benefits or need personalized guidance, visit SSA.gov or call 1-800-772-1213.