If you're struggling to stretch your Social Security checks far enough already, a large Social Security cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) probably sounds like good news to you. A b

Every year, Social Security is eligible for a COLA. When inflation remains flat, Social Security benefits remain flat. When there's a decrease in inflation from one year to the next, Social Security benefits also remain flat.

As summer winds down, retirees and Social Security recipients shift their focus toward 2026—especially the upcoming Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA). Although the official announcement won’t arrive until October 2025,