Social Security Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) Update: Brace Yourself for the Smallest COLA Since 2021

The passage of the Social Security Fairness Act earlier this year brought a surprise benefit increase for 3.2 million Americans. If you weren't among them, your next opportunity for a benefit boost will come with the 2026 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). The latest projections suggest a COLA that's lower than what seniors have gotten used to over the last few years.