January 2026 Social Security Payments: 2.8% COLA Boost + New Schedule Dates

Americans receiving Social Security, SSDI, or SSI benefits will see a 2.8% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) increase in January 2026 payments, plus shifted dates due to federal holidays and weekends.

This boost helps offset inflation on essentials like bills, rent, and medical costs.
 

SSI Recipients Paid Early

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments arrive December 31, 2025 (not January), as New Year's Day is a federal holiday.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) advances to the prior business day.
 

Social Security & SSDI by Birthdate

Most post-May 1997 SSDI recipients and retirees/survivors get paid Wednesdays by birthday:

• Born 1st–10th: January 14, 2026

• Born 11th–20th: January 21, 2026

• Born 21st–31st: January 28, 2026
   

Fixed 3rd-of-Month Group

Pre-May 1997 starters or SSI/Social Security dual recipients: January 2, 2026 (3rd is Saturday).
 

January 2026 Schedule Summary

• SSI: Dec 31, 2025

• 3rd-of-Month: Jan 2, 2026

• Birthdays 1–10: Jan 14, 2026

• Birthdays 11–20: Jan 21, 2026

• Birthdays 21–31: Jan 28, 2026

Read: Social Security Recipients Could See Health Insurance Costs Rise in 2026
 

Missing Payment? Here Are Next Steps

Wait three business days, then check my Social Security for updates/deposits.

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