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. We determined a 2.8-percent COLA on October 24, 2025. We will announce the next COLA in October 2026.

Social Security program information

• COLA History
• How the COLA is applied to Social Security retirement benefits
• Effect of the 2.8-percent COLA on average Social Security benefit amounts
• 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
• Assessment for direct payment of fees (Appointed representative fee)