Social Security Announces a 3.6% Increase for 2027. Here’s When It Starts.
News
There’s a new number to keep in mind when planning for next year: 3.6%.
The Social Security Administration has announced that Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits will receive a 3.6% cost-of-living adjustment for 2027. That matters to older adults, people with disabilities and families who count on these payments.
The increase starts on two different dates
Social Security: increased benefits begin with payments in January 2027.
SSI: increased payments begin December 31, 2026.
SSI and Social Security are separate programs, and some people receive both. If that’s your situation, keep both dates in mind rather than assuming every payment changes at the same time.
Use your own notice to plan
A percentage increase doesn’t mean everyone gets the same number of extra dollars. Your benefit amount matters. A headline about an average retirement payment won’t tell you what your own payment will be.
SSA says benefit notices will arrive in December, with notices also available through my Social Security accounts. When yours is available, review the amount and timing before changing your household budget.
For now, save the official announcement and put a reminder on your December calendar to check your notice. The announcement is useful news; your individual notice is the one to plan around.
