Summary
Millions of Americans will get Social Security payments this week. The payments are distributed based on birth dates, and the amount varies according to different factors. Changes in Social Security benefits, including a potential increase for 2026, depend on inflation rates.
Key Facts
- Social Security payments go to more than 70 million people in the U.S.
- Payments this week include retirement, spousal, and survivor benefits for those born from the 21st to the 30th of the month.
- The payment schedule is spread across different dates in October based on the beneficiary's birth date.
- The Social Security Administration recommends waiting three days before contacting them if a payment is late.
- The average monthly benefit amount for retired workers was $2,008.31 as of August 2025.
- Maximum monthly benefits vary, with the highest being $5,108 for those who delay retirement until age 70.
- The 2026 benefit increase (COLA) will be announced in October, based on inflation rates from July to September.
- An advocacy group estimates a 2.7% increase in benefits for 2026 to adjust for inflation.
