2026 COLA, SGA, SSI Updates 

2026 COLA Adjustment 

As we close out the year, you may be wondering what changes are coming to Social Security in 2026?

Each year, the Social Security Administration (SSA) announces updates before the new year, including the annual Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA). COLA is determined by the SSA and is based on increases in the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W), which reflects factors like inflation and broader economic trends.

In October, the SSA announced a 2.8% increase in benefits for 2026. This adjustment will apply to both Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). 

For comparison, the COLA for 2025 was 2.5%. 

Your COLA Notice

SSDI beneficiaries will see this increase reflected in their benefit amount at the beginning of January 2026. Those receiving SSI will see the increase on December 31, 2025.

If you are receiving benefits, you will receive a one-page explanation by mail or email in December 2025 outlining the increase, including the specific dates and updated benefit amounts for your case. 

If you have a my social security account, you can access this information online.  

SGA 2026 

Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) for blind individuals is $2,830 and $1,690 for non-blind individuals. SGA is the maximum monthly earnings individuals applying for benefits can make while still being eligible for benefits.  

If you’ve already been approved for benefits, keep in mind that the rules for working are different than SGA. 

For both blind and non-blind individuals, SGA is based on the national wage index.  

SSI Changes 2026 

Additionally, for 2026, the maximum monthly federal benefit amounts are $994 for an eligible individual and $1,491 for an eligible individual with an eligible spouse. This is the most an individual or married household can receive in benefits monthly for SSI.  

Each SSI case is unique, and the benefit amount you receive is determined individually based on your circumstances. 

Fierce Advocacy 

Staying informed about these changes for 2026 is crucial for SSDI and SSI beneficiaries, as many rely on monthly payments to manage daily life and meet essential needs. 

At Nyman Turkish, we are committed to supporting you through every stage of your journey and are here to answer any questions you might have 

Our Firm will fight to get you the benefits you deserve. Call us at 877-529-4773 or visit our website for a FREE case evaluation.