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

Key Points

• The 2027 Social Security COLA is expected to add about $75 to the average retirement benefit.

• Spousal benefits are projected to rise by roughly $35 a month.

• The amount you receive may be higher or lower, depending on how your current benefits compare with the average.

Social Security beneficiaries are nearing a 3.6% cost-of-living adjustment, an increase that should help offset the persistent inflation seniors have dealt with this year.

Still, the size of the boost depends heavily on the benefit you receive now. Here's a closer look at what the adjustment could mean for average retirement and spousal Social Security checks.

The average retirement benefit is set to rise by about $75

The typical Social Security retiree received around $2,089 a month as of September 2026, or a little more than $25,000 a year.

With the 3.6% COLA taking effect with the December 2026 payment, which arrives in January 2027, that average benefit would increase by roughly $75 a month to about $2,164. On an annual basis, that would put the average benefit just below $26,000.

Average spousal benefits are lower, at about $987 per month as of September 2026. Because the COLA is calculated as a percentage, the increase for spousal beneficiaries will also be smaller in dollar terms. The typical spousal check would rise by about $35 a month, though that would be enough to push the average above $1,000 for the first time.

Some beneficiaries will see more or less than these estimates, depending on how their current checks compare with the average. A simple way to estimate your own increase is to add 3.6% to your current benefit. The Social Security Administration should also send a personalized COLA notice in early December with your exact new amount.

If the adjustment falls short, plan ahead

Once you have a rough idea of what your benefit will look like next year, compare it with your monthly expenses to see how much you will still need to cover on your own. From there, make a plan for the remaining gap.

If you have savings, that is usually the best place to start. If not, you may need to think about taking a job or applying for other government assistance. If you expect to depend on those options next year, it is wise to begin the process early because approvals can take time.

After a month or two of receiving your updated Social Security checks, review your budget to see whether it is working as planned. Make any needed changes so you can manage the rest of the year comfortably.