Summary
Predictions for Social Security's cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) in 2027 suggest that benefits could rise between 1.2 percent and 3.1 percent. These adjustments depend on inflation, which affects the purchasing power of retirees receiving Social Security. The final decision will be based on official inflation data in late 2026.
Key Facts
- Social Security benefits adjust annually based on the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA).
- The 2027 COLA is predicted to be between 1.2 percent and 3.1 percent.
- The Senior Citizens League predicts a 2.8 percent increase.
- The Congressional Budget Office forecasts a 3.1 percent rise for 2027.
- COLAs use the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W) to measure inflation.
- Final COLA figures for 2027 will be announced in October 2026, based on third-quarter inflation data.
- Analysts worry that a small increase may not cover rising costs for retirees.
