Millions of Social Security recipients are seeing slightly larger payments as the 2026 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) officially takes effect — and for beneficiaries, January Social Security payments will follow the standard monthly schedule.
The 2.8% COLA increase, which was applied beginning Dec. 31, is now reflected in January checks, boosting benefits by about $56 per month on average, according to the Social Security Administration.
More than 71 million Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) beneficiaries nationwide are affected by the increase.
January 2026 Social Security Payment Schedule
Social Security benefits are typically issued on Wednesdays, based on the recipient’s birth date. Beneficiaries will receive payments on the same schedule used nationwide.
January 2026 payment dates:
- Wednesday, Jan. 14 – Birth dates between the 1st and 10th
- Wednesday, Jan. 21 – Birth dates between the 11th and 20th
- Wednesday, Jan. 28 – Birth dates between the 21st and 31st
- Friday, Jan. 3 – Beneficiaries who began receiving benefits before May 1997
The full 2026 Social Security payment calendar is available on the SSA’s website and can help beneficiaries plan monthly budgets.
COLA Increase Confirmed for 2026
Yes — the 2.8% COLA increase is now in effect.
How recent COLA increases compare:
- 2026: 2.8%
- 2025: 2.5%
- 2024: 3.2%
- 2023: 3.2%
- Highest on record: 14.3% (1980)
COLA adjustments are designed to help benefits keep pace with inflation, particularly rising costs for essentials such as housing, food, and healthcare.
What Else Is New for Social Security in 2026?
In addition to higher monthly payments, several key program limits are changing this year:
- Earnings limit (under full retirement age):
- Increased to $24,480
- $1 withheld for every $2 earned over the limit
- Maximum earnings subject to Social Security tax:
- Increased to $184,500
- Earnings limit for those reaching full retirement age in 2026:
- Increased to $65,160
- $1 withheld for every $3 earned over the limit until the month full retirement age is reached
- No earnings limit applies for workers who are 67 or older for the entire year
The SSA continues to define full retirement age as 67, though benefits can begin as early as age 62, with permanently reduced monthly payments.