How the 3.6% 2027 Social Security COLA Will Affect Average Retirement and Spousal Benefits

Social Security beneficiaries are nearing a 3.6% cost-of-living adjustment, an increase that is above average and should help offset the pressure of elevated inflation many seniors have dealt with throughout the year.

Still, the dollar amount of the boost will vary depending on the size of each person's current check. Here's a closer look at what the 2027 COLA could mean for average retirement and spousal Social Security benefits.

Average retirement benefits are projected to rise by about $75

The average Social Security retirement beneficiary receives about $2,089 per month as of September 2026. That adds up to a little more than $25,000 a year.

When the 3.6% COLA takes effect with the December 2026 payment, which is paid in January 2027, it should add about $75 to that monthly amount. That would raise the average benefit to roughly $2,164 per month and bring annual benefits to just under $26,000.

Average spousal benefits are lower, at about $987 per month as of September 2026. Because COLA increases are based on a percentage, the typical spousal check will rise by a smaller dollar amount. In this case, the average spousal beneficiary would get about $35 more each month, enough to push those benefits above $1,000 for the first time on average.

Not everyone will see the same increase. The exact amount depends on how each person's current benefit compares with the average. A quick estimate can be made by adding 3.6% to the current monthly payment. The Social Security Administration should also send a personalized COLA notice in early December showing the precise new benefit amount.

What to do if the 2027 COLA falls short of your needs

Once you have an estimate of next year's Social Security income, compare it with your average monthly expenses to see how much more you may need to cover on your own. From there, you can build a plan for the difference.

Personal savings are usually the best place to start if you have them. If not, you may need to look into working or seeking additional government assistance. If you think you'll depend on those benefits next year, it's smart to begin the process as early as possible because approvals can take time.

After a month or two with the updated Social Security payment, review your budget to see whether it's holding up. Make any necessary adjustments to help carry you through the rest of the year.