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.

As summer winds down, retirees and Social Security recipients shift their focus toward 2026—especially the upcoming Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA). Although the official announcement won’t arrive until October 2025,

There's Supplemental Security Income (SSI), as well. This is a monthly benefit for the blind, disabled, and low-income seniors. The maximum federal benefit is $967 for a single adult and $1,450 for a couple and increases annually with the COLA. In addition, some states supplement SSI benefits for their residents.