2.8 Percent Increase in 2026 for SSI and SSDI Recipients

Takeaways

• Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) monthly payouts will increase by 2.8 percent in 2026 based on the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA).
• Maximum monthly SSI payments will be $994 for individuals and $1,491 for couples, starting December 31, 2025.
• The estimated average monthly SSDI payment will increase by $44 to $1,630.

A slight raise in benefits payments is coming in 2026 for Americans who rely on Social Security disability benefits programs such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). Every October, the Social Security Administration (SSA) announces the next year’s cost-of-living adjustment (COLA).

The COLA, which is tied to changes in the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W), is designed to keep benefit payments aligned with inflation. For 2026, the COLA will increase by 2.8 percent, a slight bump up from the COLA increase of 2.5 percent for 2025.

“Social Security is a promise kept, and the annual cost-of-living adjustment is one way we are working to make sure benefits reflect today’s economic realities to provide a foundation of security,” SSA Commissioner Frank J. Bisignano said in a news release. “The cost-of-living adjustment is a vital part of how Social Security delivers on its mission.”

2026 Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Payout

For an individual receiving SSI benefits, they will see their maximum monthly benefits payment increase by $27, from $967 to $994. For couples, the maximum monthly payment will increase from $1,450 to $1,491, a difference of $41. SSI benefits recipients should see the increased amount starting with the payments they receive on December 31, 2025. About 7.5 million people currently receive SSI benefits.

2026 Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) Payout

Individuals who receive SSDI benefits will also see a 2.8 percent increase in their payments. Since each SSDI recipient’s situation is unique, it is not possible to state the specific amount that each person will get. However, the estimated average monthly amount is $1,630, which is a $44 increase from $1,586 in 2025. Note that the amount of your SSDI benefits is based on your lifetime average earnings before you acquired your disability.

Additional Reading

For additional reading on topics related to SSI and SSDI, check out the following articles:

• What Assets Count When Applying for SSI?
• SSI vs. SSDI: 3 Major Differences
• What You Need to Know About Applying for SSDI or SSI
• Can I Collect Social Security Benefits and Still Work?