SSA Announces 2026 COLA: What Disability Professionals Need to Know

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has released the official 2026 Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) effective January 2026. 

Each year, the COLA reflects changes in inflation and directly affects millions of beneficiaries whose monthly income depends on Social Security and SSI. For practitioners, this announcement is more than an economic update, it’s a critical data point that shapes client communication, benefit calculations, and case strategy.

Key Figures 

• COLA Increase: 2.8% 

• Effective Date: January 2026 benefit payments 

• SSA Announcement: https://www.ssa.gov/news/en/press/releases/2025-10-24.html  

• Context: The 2025 COLA was 2.5%; this year’s adjustment reflects updated Consumer Price Index data through Q3 2025. 

Bookmark SSA’s COLA fact sheet for quick reference: COLA 2026 Fact Sheet  

Implications for Representatives and Attorneys 

Your clients will hear about this announcement in the news, but they will turn to you for context and accuracy. Having a clear, professional explanation ready reinforces your credibility and strengthens trust. 

The annual COLA announcement is one of the most visible moments in the Social Security calendar. It’s an opportunity for the ACRD community to lead the national conversation, clarifying what the adjustment means and ensuring clients are informed with accuracy and confidence. 

Thank you for your continued leadership in serving individuals with disabilities.