Understanding the Social Security Increase

A Social Security increase means that program enrollees are eligible to receive greater benefit amounts. This is an important development for retirees who rely on the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) financial support. Many beneficiaries are not aware of how the Social Security benefits increase works. As a result, these enrollees may not understand when their benefits can increase or how much the amounts can rise.

If you qualify for Social Security (SS), it is important that you understand how much you are eligible to receive. While your Social Security office can help you better understand your available benefits, it is important that you know when you might receive additional funds as well. By being aware of potential SS increases, you can make sure you are properly budgeting your benefits each month.

What is the Social Security cost of living increase?

The Social Security cost of living increase can occur each year. This is referred to as the SS cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). Each year, national costs of living are assessed. If this total rises due to inflation, retirees’ benefits rise proportionally. This Social Security COLA increase helps to ensure that beneficiaries are still supported even though living costs are higher. Additionally, early retirees need to remember that the COLA also affects their SS earning maximum. Usually, a COLA increase also raises the limit on the income that early retirees can earn without having their benefits reduced.

When will Social Security increase?

When necessary, there is an automatic increase in Social Security benefits that happens nationally. It is not guaranteed that a COLA will always warrant an increase in payment for retirees. However, when applicable, there will be a Social Security increase by year. This means beneficiaries can check to see if they can receive additional funds in January.

How much does Social Security increase each year?

According to the Social Security increase cost of living history in recent years, benefits generally increase from one year to the next. However, a COLA is only warranted when national inflation is an issue. Inflation does not always rise at a steady rate. As a result, it is impossible to determine an SS increase from one year to another. If you have questions about increases in your benefits, contact your Social Security office.