Cost-Of-Living Adjustment (COLA)

Since 1975, Social Security's general benefit increases have been based on increases in the cost of living, as measured by the Consumer Price Index. We call such increases Cost-Of-Living Adjustments, or COLAs. Because there has been a decline in the Consumer Price Index, there will be no COLA payable in 2010.

Social Security program information

• COLA History
• How the COLA is applied to Social Security retirement benefits
• Benefit tables where special eligibility rules apply

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program information

• Effect of the COLA on SSI payment amounts
• COLA used to determine SSI earned income exclusion for students
• Fee charged to States for Federal administration of State supplementary payments

Other information

• Fee for services performed as a representative payee