For aging or disabled individuals, Social Security can be a lifeline. Across the state of California, people rely on these benefits to make it through the day. As inflation continues to rise across the country, so does the cost of living. Thankfully, Social Security takes inflation into account, and you may find yourself wondering as we head into the new year, what will be the Social Security increase in 2026?
Key Takeaways from Changes to Social Security in 2026
In 2026, Social Security benefits and Supplemental Security Income, or SSI payments, will be increased by 2.8%. This is due to COLA, or the annual cost-of-living adjustment. According to United States law, federal benefits must be increased when the cost of living rises across the country. This increase will come into effect in January of 2026, and increased SSI payments will begin with the recipient’s December 31st, 2025, payment.
For individuals who are receiving SSI benefits, you will likely see an increase in your monthly benefit payment, and for those receiving SSDI, or Social Security Disability Insurance, you will also see this 2.8% increase. However, because SSDI payments are unique and tied directly to your personal situation, there is no way to state out front the specific amount you can expect to receive with your benefit increase.
If your SSDI claim is pending or you are stuck somewhere in the appeals process, once you gain approval, your benefits will likely reflect the 2026 increase. Additionally, the Social Security Administration, or SSA, will calculate any back pay based on the onset date of your disability. Keep in mind that it can take several months for a decision regarding benefits to be handed down from the SSA, and a large portion of initial claims are actually denied.
This is where a lawyer from Gade & Parekh, LLP steps in. If your original claim for Social Security is denied, we are here to provide you with the necessary documentation and legal representation needed to seek an appeal.
How Will This Affect Seniors Living in California?
There are a couple of ways in which the increase in the cost of living could affect senior individuals. First, for any seniors who are enrolled in Medicare, any kind of increase to the cost of Part B will likely take away from their upcoming COLA. Second, the COLA for Social Security has historically done a poor job at helping senior citizens maintain their buying power, and the 2026 increase will likely not be an exception.
Many individuals will find themselves hoping that the upcoming Social Security COLA will improve their overall financial picture, but the more likely situation is that it won’t. Thankfully, with the help of the right attorney, your rights to Social Security benefits can be protected.
About Gade & Parekh, LLP
At Gade & Parekh, LLP, we are here to help individuals currently receiving, or those hoping to receive, Social Security or disability benefits. If you are no longer able to work and support your family or you find that you are in need of Supplemental Security Income, the team at Gade & Parekh, LLP is here to offer you a full range of services. We know that dealing with the SSA can be difficult, and we are here to help you, no matter where you are in the claims process.
You can learn more about your SSA benefits and the changes to COLA in 2026 by contacting our firm. With decades of experience, our team is here to help handle all complicated financial matters involved in your case and guide you through the process of seeking benefits. We are your trusted Sacramento Social Security law firm.
FAQs
Q: How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Social Security Lawyer from Gade & Parekh, LLP?
A: The cost to hire a Social Security lawyer from Gade & Parekh, LLP, is the standard fee for these cases. The Social Security Administration regulates all attorney fees in cases of disability. Typically, at Gade & Parekh, LLP, if we do not win your case for you, you will not owe a fee. When you meet with our Social Security attorney at your consultation, we can better explain to you how a contingency fee structure works in your case.
Q: Will Medicare Premiums Affect the Increase in Social Security?
A: Nearly 69 million individuals across the nation rely on Medicare coverage. Those receiving Medicare Part B premiums will see an increase in 2026. If your Medicare Part B premiums are deducted from your Social Security payment, this can, however, reduce the increase in your net benefit. Keep in mind that the Medicare premium increase will not affect everyone, and it is wise to speak with an attorney who can better explain your unique situation.
Q: How Can I Find My Updated Benefit Amount?
A: The Social Security Administration will start to send notices regarding benefit updates as early as December 2025. If you have an account through the Social Security Administration’s website, you can view your increase or update notice online in a secure and convenient manner. This is often a quicker way of seeking information regarding your benefits than having to wait for a paper letter.
Q: How Many People Will Be Affected by the Increase?
A: In the United States, all individuals who are currently receiving Social Security benefits will see changes to their benefit packages. As of April 2025, around 73.9 million people were receiving benefits from Social Security. This includes retired workers, the spouses and children of retired workers, disabled workers, and several other parties. All of these parties will see their benefits affected by the 2026 increase.
Hire a Social Security Lawyer Today
If you have been denied Social Security benefits or may come to rely on them in the future, you need to hire a Social Security lawyer as soon as possible. The changes coming in the new year can feel confusing, but with the legal support of the team at Gade & Parekh, LLP, you gain the confidence knowing you have someone in your corner, fighting for your rights to these benefits. Contact our offices today to learn more and to schedule an initial consultation.