More than 70 million Americans will see changes in their Social Security checks starting January 2026. The adjustments include a cost-of-living raise, higher Medicare premiums, and new income limits for early claimants.
At a Glance
- 2.8% COLA boosts average retirement checks by $56
- Medicare Part B premiums jump 9.7% to $202.90
- Early earners can now make up to $24,480 before benefits shrink
- Why it matters: Most retirees will feel only a modest net gain after Medicare takes its larger bite
Payment Schedule for January 2026
Checks arrive on three Wednesdays based on birth dates:
- January 14 – birthdays 1st-10th
- January 21 – birthdays 11th-20th
- January 28 – birthdays 21st-31st
Cost-of-Living Adjustment
The Social Security Administration confirmed a 2.8% COLA in October. Letters announcing individual amounts began mailing in early December; account holders can view them online now.
Average increases:
| Beneficiary | 2025 Monthly | 2026 Monthly | Gain |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single retiree | $2,015 | $2,071 | $56 |
| Retired couple | $3,120 | $3,208 | $88 |
Medicare Part B Premium Hike
Monthly premiums rise from $185 to $202.90, eroding part of the COLA for most beneficiaries because the charge is deducted directly from Social Security payments.
Maximum Monthly Benefits
Workers who retire at full retirement age can collect up to $4,152 in 2026, up from $4,018. Those who delay until age 70 can receive as much as $5,251.
Earnings Limits for Early Claimants
Claim benefits before full retirement age and keep more pay:
- Under full retirement age all year: limit rises to $24,480; Social Security withholds $1 for every $2 above that
- Year you reach full retirement age: limit rises to $65,160; $1 withheld for every $3 above that
Previous limits were $23,400 and $62,160.
New Tax Deduction for Seniors
A $6,000 extra standard deduction for people 65 and older can shrink or wipe out federal income tax on benefits. Created under “One Big Beautiful Bill,” it expires after 2028.
Eligibility:
- Modified adjusted gross income up to $75,000 single / $150,000 joint for full deduction
- Phases out completely at $175,000 single / $250,000 joint
Disability Benefits
SSDI recipients can test work ability under these 2026 thresholds:
- Non-blind: earn up to $1,690 a month
- Blind: earn up to $2,830 a month
- Trial work period: $1,210 a month (up from $1,160)
Key Takeaways
- The 2.8% COLA adds about $56 to average retirement checks
- Medicare’s $17.90 premium jump trims the net gain
- Early claimants get slightly more room to earn wages before penalties kick in
- A temporary $6,000 senior deduction may reduce taxes on benefits
