Social Security benefits are likely to get a historic cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) in 2026, but the program will undergo other important changes, as well.

Financial pros recommend waiting as long as possible to claim your Social Security benefits. Most Americans say they're ignoring that advice.

“Delays in access, communication breakdowns and the loss of reliable services erode the stability older adults rely on,” Shannon Benton, executive director of the Senior Citizens League, told Nexstar. “Older Americans deserve a fully operational government that prioritizes their well‑being, not another round of political gridlock.”

See how an $1,800 Social Security check could change based on the projected 2026 COLA of 2.6-2.8%. Then, discover how Medicare Part B may trim the raise.

The Congressional Budget Office estimated that roughly 750,000 government employees would be furloughed each day during the shutdown. While the changes in services at local Social Security offices are not tied to the government shutdown, any update in reduced services could make it more difficult for recipients to receive their benefits.

Research conducted by AARP in September 2025 shows that older adults feel the projected nearly 3% COLA for 2026 is insufficient to offset rising prices.

If you are collecting spousal benefits in 2025, then you will most likely be entitled to a benefits increase in 2026. This increase is happening across the board for everyone who receives income from the Social Security Administration. This includes people receiving:

Trump warned at the press conference that if an agreement is not reached with the Democrats, programs like Social Security, Medicaid, and Medicare will be in danger. There are currently no changes to Social Security, Medicare or Medicaid as the government shutdown, which just reached its third week, continues.