There are millions of Americans who rely on Social Security and the government has just confirmed that retirees will be able to view the new Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) notice in late November 2025. Recipients can log onto their online Social Security account to view this update.
Here’s what you need to know about the new deadline, how to check your notice, and what this update means for your 2026 benefits.
What Is a COLA and Why Does It Matter So Much?
Annually, the Social Security Administration (SSA) makes adjustments to Social Security benefits to help retirees keep up with the rising costs of the economy. The aim is to ensure that the senior population maintain their purchasing power.
The COLA adjustment will be effective for January 2026 benefits, however, beneficiaries will know about their benefits as soon as the COLA notice becomes available in late November 2025.
It’s important to remember that for those retirees who live on fixed incomes, every little bit counts. A difference of even 1–2% in COLA can impact how comfortably someone can cover rent, utilities, medical bills, and food.
The Official Late November Deadline
The SSA has noted that most retirees will be able to see their 2026 COLA notice in the “Message Centre” on their online Social Security account. The aim of this is to encourage people to make use of the online tools instead of waiting for mailed letters.
While some people will still receive paper notices, the SSA says the fastest and most reliable way to view your updated benefit amount is by logging into your account online.
This deadline is important because there are many retirees who can use this information to plan his finances for next year based on their new monthly benefit amount. Beneficiaries can plan for essential expenses such as housing, medical care and groceries. This will avoid any financial stress as early planning will help in making proactive decisions.
How to Check Your COLA Notice Online
If you already have an online Social Security account, you can check your COLA:
- Go to the official Social Security website.
- Log onto your online Social Security account.
- Click on Message Centre and view COLA notice.
If you don’t have an account yet, now is the perfect time to create one.
What the COLA Could Mean for Your 2026 Payments
Even though the 2026 COLA is based on inflation data, retirees can expect a slight increase or just expect their benefits to just keep up its value in the rising cost of today.
The COLA applies to:
- Social Security retirement benefits
- Disability benefits
- Survivor benefits
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Paper Notices Will Still Be Sent — But May Arrive Later
Even though the SSA is trying to push for more people to make use of online services, paper notices are still being mailed but it’s important to remember that the mailed COLA letters will most likely arrive in December. For this reason, people are encouraged to make use of their online Social Security accounts. However, for those who really depend on mail delivery and don’t have access to their online accounts, be sure to keep an eye on your mail box around the beginning of December.
Final Thoughts
The government has confirmed a late November 2025 deadline for COLA notices, and this allows millions of Americans to plan their budgets for the next year. The cost of living is constantly increasing, and financial planning will assist those who are living on fixed incomes.
You will receive the information more quickly, prevent delays, and be prepared to confidently and clearly plan your 2026 budget if you check your notification online.