First Social Security Payments of 2026 Coming Next Week: Millions of Americans are receiving their first updated Social Security payments of 2026. These payments include the annual cost-of-living adjustment that began in January. The increase applies automatically to retirement, disability, and survivor benefits. For many households, these monthly deposits help cover rent, groceries, medical bills, and other daily expenses. Reviewing the updated payment details is important because the final amount deposited may differ from the gross benefit shown.

2026 Cost-of-Living Adjustment Details

The 2026 cost-of-living adjustment is 2.5 percent. This increase is calculated by the Social Security Administration using inflation data from the previous year. Because the adjustment is based on a percentage, people with higher benefit amounts receive larger dollar increases. Although this boost is helpful, it may not fully match rising costs in areas like housing and healthcare.

Updated Average Benefit Amounts

The average monthly benefit for retired workers has increased to around $1,976 in 2026. Disabled workers receiving Social Security Disability Insurance are now averaging about $1,581 per month. Survivor benefits have also increased in line with the percentage adjustment. While the dollar difference may seem modest, it adds up over the course of the year and provides some protection against inflation.

Payment Dates for February 2026

Payment timing depends on when a person first started receiving benefits and their birth date. Those who began receiving Social Security before May 1997 are paid on the third of each month. Others receive payments on Wednesdays based on their birth date range. This system spreads deposits across the month and helps ensure smooth processing.

Why Deposited Amounts May Be Lower

Many beneficiaries notice that the amount deposited is lower than the official benefit figure. This usually happens because Medicare Part B premiums and other deductions are automatically withheld. Some people also choose to have federal taxes deducted from their payments. These withholdings can reduce the net increase from the cost-of-living adjustment.

Disclaimer

This article is for general informational purposes only. Individual benefit amounts, deductions, and payment dates vary based on personal records and eligibility. Readers should check their official Social Security statements or contact the Social Security Administration for accurate and personalized information.