Recent forecasts concerning Social Security's 2026 COLA suggest the average retiree will receive an additional $48 to $54 per month in benefits next year.

Estimates for Social Security’s Cost of Living Adjustment – the automatic raise beneficiaries typically receive at the start of the new year – continues to tick upwards.

Every year, Social Security is eligible for a COLA. When inflation remains flat, Social Security benefits remain flat. When there's a decrease in inflation from one year to the next, Social Security benefits also remain flat.