Social Security COLA 2026 payments start now — January schedule, Medicare premium rise and $6,000 senior tax break
Social Security and SSI benefits rise 2.8% in 2026, lifting the average retired worker’s monthly benefit to $2,071. Medicare Part B premiums increase to $202.90 a month. January payments follow a staggered schedule, with some deposits shifted for holidays. A new $6,000 federal tax deduction for seniors begins with 2025 tax returns.