The short answer: Social Security is expected to announce the 2027 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) on Wednesday, October 14, 2026. That is the morning the Bureau of Labor Statistics releases the September inflation report at 8:30 AM Eastern. The official number is not out yet. Any percentage you see before then is an estimate. We will update this article when the announcement is made.
When Will the 2027 COLA Be Announced?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics lists the September 2026 Consumer Price Index release for October 14, 2026 at 8:30 AM. (Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics release calendar.) September is the last month Social Security needs to figure out the COLA, so the agency has announced it that same morning in past years. Watch Social Security's COLA page for the official figure.
How the COLA Is Figured
Social Security bases the COLA on the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W). It compares the average CPI-W for July, August and September this year with the same three-month average from the last year a COLA was set. If prices went up, the increase is rounded to the nearest tenth of a percent. If they did not, there is no COLA. (Source: Social Security Office of the Chief Actuary.)
For 2026, the average CPI-W for the third quarter of 2025 was 317.265. That was 2.8 percent above the 308.729 base, so the 2026 COLA was 2.8 percent. (Source: Social Security Office of the Chief Actuary.)
What Are the Estimates for 2027?
Advocacy groups publish estimates before the official number. The Senior Citizens League, a nonprofit seniors' group, predicted a COLA of about 3.5 percent one month before the announcement. (Source: The Senior Citizens League.) That is a forecast, not a promise. The real figure comes only from the government's September data.
When Would a 2027 Increase Show Up?
A COLA is effective for December benefits, and benefits payable in January carry the new amount. (Source: Social Security Office of the Chief Actuary.) Your own raise will depend on your benefit amount, so a percentage like 3 percent does not mean the same dollars for everyone.
Why a COLA Does Not Always Mean a Bigger Check
Medicare Part B premiums are usually taken straight out of your Social Security payment. In 2026, the standard Part B premium is $202.90 a month. The 2027 premium has not been announced as of this writing. Our Medicare Open Enrollment 2027 guide explains what to watch for. If your plan costs change, read what the federal government announced about 2027 Medicare Advantage and Part D costs.
If higher costs are squeezing your budget, you may qualify for help. See our guides to Florida senior assistance programs and senior citizen benefits, or read about senior poverty in Florida and the programs that help.
Watch Out for COLA Scams
- Social Security will not ask you to pay a fee to get your COLA.
- Do not trust a call, text or email that says you must "confirm" your bank account to receive an increase.
- Check your amount by signing in to your own my Social Security account, or by calling 1-800-772-1213.
If you still get a paper check, read our guide to switching to direct deposit, and see our scam alert for Florida seniors.
Where to Get Free Help
- Social Security: 1-800-772-1213, or ssa.gov
- Florida Elder Helpline: 1-800-96-ELDER (1-800-963-5337)
- SHINE Medicare counseling: see how to get a SHINE counselor
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, financial, or legal advice. Readers should consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical concerns, a financial advisor for financial planning, and an attorney for legal matters. The resources and programs mentioned are subject to eligibility requirements and availability, which may vary. While we strive for accuracy, the information provided may not reflect the most recent updates. Always verify details with official sources or professionals before making decisions based on this content.