There are millions of Americans who rely on Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) during their retirement years. Fortunately, the government has confirmed that some benefit payments with the new 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) will arrive in December 2025.
In simple terms, this means that SSI beneficiaries will receive their 2026 payment early.
What the 2.8% Raise Means
Every year, the Social Security Administration (SSA) makes adjustments to Social Security benefits to help recipients keep up with the rising costs of the economy, this is referred to as the COLA.
For 2026, the COLA has been set at 2.8%. That means most beneficiaries will see a modest bump in their monthly payments.
Even though this increase may not seem like much, every bit counts. It makes a major difference to those who live on fixed incomes and struggle with essential expenses such as housing, utilities and medical care.
Who Will Get the Increase First?
Not everyone will receive the higher payment at the same time. Here’s how the new schedule works:
- It’s important to remember that SSI recipients will be the first group to receive the increase. SSI payments are generally sent on the 1st of every month, but if the 1st falls on a federal holiday or weekend, the SSA will send out the SSI payment on the last business day before. Therefore, the SSI payment for January will on December 31, 2025. That check will already include the 2.8% raise.
- Regular Social Security recipients (retirement, disability, and survivor benefits) will start getting their increased payments in January 2026 as per the normal SSA payment schedule.
Why the Early Payment Matters
Beneficiaries are urged to be mindful that this is not an extra payment but rather just a schedule adjustment. Therefore, planning your budget in advance is important.
Food, electricity, and transportation expenses all increase throughout the Christmas season. Many households find it easier to get through this hectic and sometimes costly time of year when they receive that little rise a few weeks early.
What You Should Do Before December
If you receive Social Security or SSI benefits, there are a few simple steps you should take to make sure you get your updated payments smoothly:
- Be sure to check your mail and your online Social Security account. The SSA will send out letters regarding your December benefit amount.
- Make sure your direct deposit details is accurate and updated. This will ensure that you receive the payment on time.
- Make sure you plan and budget accordingly, things such as Medicare Part B premiums may also increase in 2026.
- Make sure you watch out for scams. Be cautious of fraudsters pretending to represent the agency.
How This Year’s Raise Compares
The 2.8% increase is slightly higher than the 2.5% in 2025. However, retirees are concerned that it does not keep up with real life expenses, especially in a time where the cost of living is constantly increasing.
Looking Ahead
Social Security payments are received by about 71 million Americans, while SSI benefits are received by an additional 7.5 million. SSI beneficiaries will be the first to see the change when their December 31, 2025 payment arrives, but all of them will see an increase in their benefits in early 2026.
In simple terms:
- The COLA for 2026: 2.8%
- First boosted payment: December 31, 2025 (for SSI recipients)
- Social Security payments: Updated benefits start in January 2026
Even though this increase may not seem like much, it all adds up. Beneficiaries are urged to plan ahead and make sure they budget accordingly. The December SSI payment is not an extra payment but rather January’s payment arriving early. Make sure you keep money aside for January’s expenses.