Social Security COLA 2026: These States Could Get the Largest Boost

The upcoming Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) announcement is one of the most anticipated events for millions of retirees across the U.S.

This year, the official COLA figure was expected to be released on October 15, 2025, but the federal government shutdown may delay that timeline.

How COLA Affects Social Security Payments

• The COLA is calculated as a percentage increase applied directly to each retiree’s monthly benefit.

• Those already receiving higher Social Security benefits will see larger dollar increases.

• Retirees in states with higher median incomes typically benefit more, since their base payments are larger.

• COLA adjustments are meant to help seniors keep up with inflation and maintain their purchasing power.

Projected COLA Increase for 2026

• The most consistent projection for the 2026 COLA is a 2.7% increase.

• This rate reflects trends in consumer prices and inflation over the past year.

• Even a modest COLA increase can help retirees manage rising living expenses such as housing, healthcare, and utilities.

Why the COLA Announcement May Be Delayed

• A partial government shutdown has paused key economic data releases from agencies like the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

• Without this data, the SSA cannot finalize or publish the COLA figure.

• Once the budget impasse ends, the announcement will be rescheduled, but no official date has been confirmed yet.

Top 10 States with the Highest Median Social Security Benefits

Residents in these states are likely to receive larger COLA dollar increases in 2026 because their median monthly benefits are higher:

• New Jersey — $2,172

• Connecticut — $2,159

• Delaware — $2,139

• New Hampshire — $2,121

• Maryland — $2,084

• Michigan — $2,067

• Washington — $2,061

• Minnesota — $2,053

• Massachusetts — $2,021

• Indiana — $2,016

Why This Matters

• Larger COLA adjustments can help cushion the impact of inflation for retirees.

• Those living in high-benefit states often feel the increase more significantly in their monthly budgets.

• Seniors in other states can still benefit through federal and state relief programs designed to support low-income retirees.

You can check your estimated COLA and payment status directly through the SSA.

-

Join us for expert tips, government aid updates, and special offers to help your family thrive. Don’t miss out—start receiving your benefits today!