Social Security benefits are officially going up in 2026, but most seniors say it won’t even include groceries
The Social Security Administration has officially announced the 2026 Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA), and while it’s technically an increase, many seniors say it won’t make a meaningful difference. With inflation still affecting food, housing and health care costs, modest increases feel more like a placeholder than a solution. For retirees living on fixed incomes, the gap between benefits and expenses continues to widen. Here’s what the new raise means and why it’s insufficient.
The numbers are there
The 2026 COLA is set at 2.8%, based on inflation data from the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Civilian Employees (CPI-W). This represents an average increase of about $60 per month for most recipients. While any increase is welcome, it is significantly lower than the 5.9% and 8.7% corrections in 2022 and 2023. Many seniors say the price increases barely make up for the rising cost of groceries, let alone other necessities.
Groceries are eating into earnings
Food prices continue to rise, especially staples such as eggs, meat and produce. Seniors report spending $50 to $100 more per month on groceries than they did two years ago. That means the entire increase in Coke could be eaten up by supermarket receipts. For those without extra income, a raise can feel like a drop in the bucket.
Medical costs continue to rise
Prescription drugs, insurance premiums and out-of-pocket costs are also increasing. Many seniors find that Medicare Part D, dental care and vision services are more expensive. None of these are fully covered by social security. The 2026 raises do not take into account these increases, leaving retirees having to make difficult choices about their health.
Housing and utilities add to pressure
Rent, property taxes and utility bills have all increased in recent years. Seniors living in fixed-income housing or trying to maintain their homes are feeling the pinch. COLA adjustments do not reflect regional cost differences. As a result, some retirees in high-cost areas have been hit harder than others.
What seniors can do
While a raise may not be impressive, there are steps seniors can take to expand their benefits. Reviewing health insurance plans, applying for food assistance programs, and exploring local senior discounts can help offset costs. Advocacy groups are also pushing for more substantive changes to Social Security and senior support programs.
Systems that need reform
The 2026 COLA highlights the growing disconnect between Social Security and the real costs of aging. As inflation continues to outpace benefit increases, many seniors are calling for a new formula that reflects the real costs retirees face. Until then, every raise is likely to be more symbolic than supportive.
Are you feeling the impact of the 2026 increase in social security? Share your thoughts or tips in the comments – we’d love to hear how you manage.
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