October 31, 2025

Get ready for a happy headline, Social Security beneficiaries! From January 2026, your monthly payments will get a welcome boost of 2.8%. This increase applies to payments for December 2025, released next year. The Social Security Administration’s latest announcement has brought smiles to millions. Retirees, who usually receive around $2,015 a month, will see their checks go up by about $56, taking it to $2,071. That’s extra money to help with rising costs! But don’t forget the spousal benefits fans! Those benefits, which can be up to half of a retired worker’s full payment, will also climb—not by a huge amount, but still helpful. Spousal benefits will increase from an average of $955 to about $982 per month, adding roughly $27 more. It might seem like pocket change, but every rupee counts when prices are climbing fast. The Social Security Administration will send out personalized letters in December 2025, letting you know your exact new payment. Wondering what to do if this raise still feels small? Experts recommend checking your monthly budget carefully. If your expenses still outpace your income, look for savings to tap into. Some people might consider part-time jobs or see if you qualify for other government assistance like Medicaid or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Mark your calendar because the first new payment with the 2026 cost-of-living adjustment will reach you in January, depending on your birth date. When that money lands in your bank or debit card, make sure to double-check the amount. Mistakes are rare but catching them early can save you hassle later. To sum it up: The 2026 COLA is a neat 2.8% increase, making life a bit easier for retirees and their spouses by raising monthly Social Security payments. If you live on these benefits, this news surely adds some masala to your wallet next year!

Read More at Economictimes →

Tags: Social security, 2026 cola, Spousal benefits, Retirement benefits, Monthly payment increase, Cost-of-living adjustment,