SSDI Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) 2026
TL;DR: The 2026 SSDI cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) is approximately 2.5%, raising the average monthly benefit. COLA is applied automatically each January. You do not need to do anything to receive the increase. ClaimPath helps you get approved for $79 flat.
2026 COLA Details
| Year | COLA Percentage | Average Monthly SSDI After |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 5.9% | $1,358 |
| 2023 | 8.7% | $1,483 |
| 2024 | 3.2% | $1,537 |
| 2025 | 2.5% | $1,580 |
| 2026 | ~2.5% | ~$1,620 |
How COLA Is Calculated
COLA is based on the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W) from the third quarter of the current year compared to the third quarter of the previous year. SSA announces the COLA in October, and it takes effect in January.
What COLA Means for Your Benefits
COLA applies to all Social Security benefits including SSDI, SSI, and retirement. The increase is automatic. You do not need to apply or notify SSA. Your January payment reflects the new amount.
For SSI recipients, the federal benefit rate also increases with COLA. The 2026 SSI individual rate of $967 reflects the cumulative COLA adjustments.
COLA and Other Thresholds
COLA also adjusts the SGA limit, trial work period threshold, and other income-related figures. This means the amount you can earn while receiving benefits also increases each year.
Get Approved to Start Receiving Benefits
COLA only helps if you are receiving benefits. ClaimPath helps you get approved for $79 flat by building SSA-compliant documents for your initial application.
Start your ClaimPath application today.
Related Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the costs for ssdi cost of living adjustment (cola) 2026?
TL;DR: The 2026 SSDI cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) is approximately 2.5%, raising the average monthly benefit. COLA is applied automatically each January. You do not need to do anything to receive the increase.
How COLA Is Calculated?
COLA is based on the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W) from the third quarter of the current year compared to the third quarter of the previous year. SSA announces the COLA in October, and it takes effect in January.
What COLA Means for Your Benefits?
COLA applies to all Social Security benefits including SSDI, SSI, and retirement. The increase is automatic. You do not need to apply or notify SSA.
What should I know about cola and other thresholds?
COLA also adjusts the SGA limit, trial work period threshold, and other income-related figures. This means the amount you can earn while receiving benefits also increases each year.
What are the benefits of get approved to start receiving benefits?
COLA only helps if you are receiving benefits. ClaimPath helps you get approved for $79 flat by building SSA-compliant documents for your initial application.