John Hughie
Millions of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) recipients are set to benefit from a 2026 Cost‑of‑Living Adjustment (COLA).
Here’s the latest update, including the projected COLA percentage, how Medicare Part B premiums may affect net gains, and the full payment schedule.
What Is 2026’s SSDI COLA?
- Analysts currently estimate a COLA increase between 2.4%–2.7%, with 2.6% or 2.7% as frontrunners.
- The official rate will be confirmed in October 2025, based on July–September 2025 CPI‑W data .
- If finalized at 2.7%, this would continue a five‑year stretch of at least 2.5% annual adjustments .
Impact of Medicare Part B Premium Increase
- Medicare Part B premiums are forecast to increase from $185 to $206.50 in 2026, a $21.50 jump .
- For SSDI recipients earning $800 or less per month, this premium hike may entirely offset the COLA gain .
- Premiums are automatically deducted from SSDI benefits, reducing net income.
SSDI 2026 Payment Schedule
SSDI payments will be automatically adjusted in January 2026, with dates based on recipient birth date ranges:
| Birth Date Range | Payment Date (Jan 2026) | Estimated Average Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| 1st–10th | January 8, 2026 | $1,630 (+2.6% COLA) |
| 11th–20th | January 15, 2026 | $1,640 (+2.6% COLA) |
| 21st–31st | January 22, 2026 | $1,645 (+2.6% COLA) |
- Figures are based on the average 2025 SSDI payout (~$1,600) and projected 2.6% COLA .
- Actual amounts vary depending on individual work history, disability onset, and prior earnings.
How COLA Is Determined
- The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners (CPI‑W) from the third quarter—July, August, and September .
- Recent inflation trends show CPI‑W growth around 2.6–2.7%, prompting higher COLA estimates .
- A potential shift to CPI‑E (elderly index) starting December 2026 may slightly increase future COLAs .
Why This Matters
- A +2.6% COLA helps maintain purchasing power against rising costs in healthcare, housing, and food.
- However, the $21.50 Part B premium increase could offset net gains, especially for lower-income SSDI recipients .
- Understanding these adjustments allows recipients to budget accurately and anticipate net income changes starting January 2026.
The projected 2.4%–2.7% COLA for 2026 SSDI indicates a continued upward adjustment meant to offset inflation and support beneficiaries.
However, recipients—especially low-income individuals—must be aware that a steep $21.50 Medicare Part B premium rise could nullify gains.
Staying informed, reviewing SSA communications in October and January, and planning accordingly will help ensure you maximize your support in the year ahead.
FAQs
When will the 2026 SSDI increase take effect?
The COLA-adjusted payments will begin January 2026, on the standard SSA schedule based on birth dates.
Will I see the COLA increase if I’m already receiving SSDI?
Yes. All current SSDI recipients receive the increase automatically, no re‑application needed.
Could Medicare premiums negate my benefit boost?
Yes. The $21.50 increase in Medicare Part B premiums may absorb the entire COLA for those receiving about $800 monthly .
