Social Security Beneficiaries to Receive 3.6% COLA Increase in 2027

Social Security Benefits to Rise by 3.6 Percent in January 2027

US Social Security beneficiaries will receive a 3.6% cost-of-living adjustment starting in January 2027, according to an announcement by the Social Security Administration.

Payment Schedules for Social Security and SSI Recipients

The annual Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) applies to both Social Security benefits and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments. Nearly 72 million Social Security beneficiaries will see the 3.6% increase beginning in January 2027. Meanwhile, payments for the 7.3 million individuals receiving SSI will increase starting December 31, as confirmed by Social Security Administration Frank Bisignano.

Inflation Data Driving the 2027 Adjustment

The 2027 adjustment is notably higher than the 2.8% increase announced for 2026. Consumer Price Index data released by the government shows that year-over-year prices rose 3.7% in September, up three-tenths of a point from August. Core inflation, which excludes volatile food and energy sectors, climbed to 2.6%.

Political Stakes in the Congressional Elections

President Donald Trump’s party risks losing control of both chambers of Congress in the legislative elections scheduled for November 3.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2027 COLA

Who qualifies for the 3.6% COLA increase in 2027?

The adjustment covers roughly 76 million Americans, including nearly 72 million Social Security beneficiaries and 7.3 million Supplemental Security Income recipients.

When do the increased payments actually arrive?

SSI recipients will see their increased payments start on December 31. Standard Social Security beneficiaries will receive their adjusted amounts beginning in January 2027.

How does this adjustment compare to previous years?

The 3.6% increase for 2027 is higher than the 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment implemented for 2026.

What drove the higher inflation rate behind this adjustment?

November 3

More on this story: Social Security COLA Projected to Reach 3.5% to 3.6% Next Year, per Newsweek · Social Security 2026: Why Some Will Receive Three Payments in October

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