SSA COLA 2027: Social Security cost-of-living adjustment rises 3.6%, largest increase since 2023 - how much more will you get?

Social Security beneficiaries will receive a 3.6% cost of living adjustment in 2027. This will increase the average monthly retirement benefit by about $75, the Social Security Administration announced the adjustment on October 14.

The new rate will take effect for Social Security benefits payable in January 2027 but Supplemental Security Income recipients are scheduled to receive increased payments beginning December 31 this year.

The adjustment will affect millions of Americans who receive retirement, disability and other Social Security benefits. However the additional amount each person receives will depend on their existing benefit.

SSA COLA 2027 Update Today: Official Increase Set at 3.6%

The SSA COLA 2027 announcement confirms the percentage increase beneficiaries can expect next year, the adjustment follows the annual review of consumer prices used to calculate the Social Security cost of living increase.

The 3.6% adjustment is higher than the 2.8% increase announced for 2026. It is the largest annual adjustment since 2023, when Social Security benefits increased by 8.7%.

2027 COLA Increase for Social Security: How Much Will Payments Rise

Social Security increase in 2027 will add about $75 a month to the average retirement benefit. But the figure represents an average not a fixed payment increase for every recipient.

So the amount beneficiaries receive will depend on their current monthly benefits. A person receiving a smaller benefit will generally see a smaller dollar increase than someone receiving a larger payment.

Social Security COLA for 2027: When Will Higher Payments Begin

Most Social Security beneficiaries will receive the higher benefits beginning in January 2027 and the exact date their payment arrives depends on the Social Security payment schedule that applies to them.

SSI recipients will receive the increased payment beginning December 31, 2026. The earlier date reflects the program's payment schedule ahead of the New Year's Day holiday.

Social Security COLA Increase for 2027: How It Compares With 2026

The social security COLA increase for 2027 is 3.6%, compared with 2.8% in 2026. The difference means benefits will receive a larger percentage adjustment next year.

The cola for social security 2027 will apply to eligible benefits, but the dollar increase will not be identical for all recipients. The estimated $75 monthly increase refers to the average retirement benefit, rather than a guaranteed amount for every beneficiary.