Social Security COLA for 2027 Expected Around 3.5–3.6%

Full analysis

Chris Stein reported that experts and prediction markets are converging on a Social Security cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) of approximately 3.5 to 3.6% for 2027. The COLA is calculated by comparing inflation in the third quarter of one year to the third quarter of the following year, using July, August, and September CPI data. The official announcement is expected around October 14th. The increase applies to the December benefit, which is paid in January — meaning recipients will see the bump in their January 2027 payment. Medicare Part B premiums, which are often withheld from Social Security checks, won't be announced until November, so the full picture of net benefit changes won't be clear until then.