Social Security increase 2027: 5 red flags to spot before you click a message about your benefits

With Social Security benefits set to rise by 3.6% in 2027, beneficiaries may be looking for updates about their bigger monthly checks. And you might get messages claiming to help activate the increase, unlock extra benefits or fix an account problem deserve careful scrutiny.

The Social Security Administration announced the 2027 cost of living adjustment on October 14. The increase is expected to add about $75 a month to the average retirement benefit.

Scammers may use news of the increase to make fraudulent offers seem convincing. The SSA's Office of the Inspector General has warned about unsolicited messages promising to boost or unlock benefits in exchange for a fee or personal information.

Social Security COLA 2027: 5 Warning Signs of a Scam

1. The message asks you to pay to activate your COLA

A message claiming you must pay a fee to receive the 2027 increase is a major warning sign, scammers may offer to boost, unlock or maximize Social Security benefits in exchange for an upfront payment. The SSA says the annual COLA is automatic, so beneficiaries do not need to pay someone to activate the increase.

2. The sender asks for personal or bank account information

Be cautious if an unexpected message asks you to provide your Social Security number, bank account details or other sensitive information to process a benefit increase as scammers may claim they need these details to verify your existing payment or release a higher amount. They may even direct recipients to official looking websites or forms designed to collect personal information.

3. Message pressures you to act immediately

Unexpected messages which demand an immediate response or threaten consequences if you delay, may be concerning. Because scammers often use urgency to discourage people from checking whether request is legitimate. And they may claim that a benefit will be delayed/lost unless the recipient responds fast.

So instead of following the instructions immediately, verify the claim. Through the SSA's official website or another trusted agency contact channel.

4. The email or text includes suspicious links or attachments

A message may use the SSA's name, logo or official looking documents to appear authentic. Some fraud emails also contain attachments/ links that lead to fake websites.

However, not every email or message containing a link is fraud as the concern is unexpected or suspicious message that asks you to provide sensitive information, make a payment or follow an unfamiliar link.

So instead of clicking, type the official Social Security website address into your browser and check your account directly.

5. The sender threatens arrest or demands an unusual payment method

Be wary of messages claiming that your Social Security number has been suspended or threaten to arrest unless you pay immediately.

As per SSA, it will not threaten arrest or demand immediate payment and it also will not ask people to pay through gift cards, cash or other unusual methods.