Social Security and SSI Benefits Increase in 2026

Effective January 1, 2026, Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits increased by 2.8% based on the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA).

Key figures for 2026:

Maximum Social Security benefit at full retirement age: $4,152 per month (up from $4,018 in 2025)
Estimated average monthly benefits:
- All retired workers: $2,071
- Aged couple: $3,208
- Disabled worker: $1,630

Social Security taxes and earnings:

Maximum taxable earnings: $184,500 (up from $176,100 in 2025)
Employee tax rate: 7.65% of wages for Social Security and Medicare
Additional Medicare tax: 0.9% on earnings above $200,000

Disability benefits and work limits:

Individuals on disability can earn up to $1,690 per month, or $2,830 for blind individuals, without affecting benefits
Trial work period: Earnings up to $1,210 per month do not affect benefits

Approximately 75 million Americans receive Social Security or SSI. The 2026 COLA is designed to help benefits keep pace with inflation. Social Security and SSI benefits will increase by 2.8% in 2026, helping recipients keep pace with inflation.