Quick answer
Social Security benefits rise 3.6% for 2027, starting with January 2027 payments (SSI on December 31, 2026); the average retired worker's benefit goes from about $2,095 to $2,170 a month, per the SSA announcement of October 14, 2026.
Data as of 2026-10-14. Source: Social Security Administration
| Item | 2026 | 2027 |
|---|---|---|
| COLA | 2.8% | 3.6% |
| Maximum taxable earnings (OASDI) | $184,500 | $192,300 |
| Earnings for one work credit | $1,890 | $1,970 |
| Earnings test, under full retirement age | $24,480/yr | $25,560/yr |
| Earnings test, year you reach FRA | $65,160/yr | $67,920/yr |
| SGA, non-blind | $1,690/mo | $1,770/mo |
| SGA, blind | $2,830/mo | $2,950/mo |
| Trial work period | $1,210/mo | $1,270/mo |
| Max benefit at full retirement age | $4,152/mo | $4,188/mo |
| SSI payment, individual | $994/mo | $1,029/mo |
| SSI payment, couple | $1,491/mo | $1,544/mo |
| Avg retired worker benefit (Jan 2027) | $2,095 before COLA | $2,170 after COLA |
Related
- Average Social Security benefit 2027
- Maximum Social Security benefit (2026 and 2027)
- Social Security COLA history (1975–2027)
- Social Security earnings test limit 2027
- Social Security taxable maximum (wage base) 2027
- SSI payment amount 2027
Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.