How much is the Social Security COLA?

The cost-of-living adjustment is calculated from a consumer price index measured over the third quarter, compared with the same quarter of the previous year. The Social Security Administration announces it in October, and it lands on January payments. Because it is formula-driven, nobody can tell you next year's figure before the data exists.

A rise in the benefit does not always mean a rise in what arrives. Medicare Part B premiums are deducted from the payment, and when those increase at a similar pace the net deposit can look flat. Checking both numbers together is the only way to see what actually changed.

An estimate for planning, not a quote. Medicare and the Marketplace set your real figures.