Washington, D.C., December 3, 2025 :
The U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA) has issued its latest round of monthly payments to millions of eligible Americans, marking a critical financial moment as beneficiaries prepare for the upcoming 2.8% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) set to begin in January 2026.
The payments released today primarily cover retirees born between the 1st and 10th of the month, along with specific categories of disability benefit recipients. The average benefit amounts ranged between $1,900 and $3,800, influenced by lifetime earnings and work history.
Upcoming 2.8% COLA to Add an Average of $56 per Month
The confirmed 2.8% COLA—the first adjustment of 2026—will raise monthly benefits by approximately $56 for the average retiree. SSA officials say the move aims to help offset rising inflation, elevated housing costs, and higher healthcare expenses impacting older Americans.
SSA Administrator Martin O’Malley emphasized the necessity of this boost:
“This adjustment ensures that millions of Americans relying on Social Security can better manage the rising cost of living.”
Over 70 Million Americans to Benefit
More than 70 million Americans, including retirees, disabled workers, and survivor beneficiaries, are directly impacted by today’s payments and the forthcoming COLA increase.
Advocacy Groups Applaud Increase but Push for Reform
Senior advocacy organizations welcomed the 2.8% increase but reiterated calls for:
Modernizing the benefits formula
Expanding protections for low-income seniors
Strengthening Social Security’s long-term funding
These groups argue that despite annual COLA increases, many recipients continue to struggle with inflation outpacing benefits.
Ongoing Debate Over Program Sustainability
Congressional discussions continue around Social Security’s long-term solvency. Lawmakers remain divided on whether to increase payroll taxes, adjust benefits, or adopt new funding models to ensure the program remains stable for future generations.
For now, the December payments and upcoming COLA increase offer critical relief to millions of American households navigating ongoing economic pressures.
