Retirees in These States Could See the Biggest COLA Checks in 2026
- Author: Elizabeth Miller
- Posted: 2025-10-09
The annual Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) is one of the most anticipated announcements for millions of retirees across the country.
This yearly adjustment determines how much Social Security payments will increase, helping seniors keep pace with inflation.
For 2026, the projected COLA increase is around 2.7%, which could mean a noticeable difference in monthly checks, especially in states where average benefits are higher.
But this year’s COLA update may face a delay. The official announcement was scheduled for October 15, but the current federal government shutdown could push the timeline back.
Agencies like the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), which supply the economic data used to calculate COLA, are affected by the shutdown. Until operations resume, the final numbers may remain on hold.
Top 10 States Expected to See the Biggest COLA Increases in 2026
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New Jersey – $2,172
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Connecticut – $2,159
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Delaware – $2,139
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New Hampshire – $2,121
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Maryland – $2,084
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Michigan – $2,067
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Washington – $2,061
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Minnesota – $2,053
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Massachusetts – $2,021
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Indiana – $2,016
(Figures based on median monthly benefits.)
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What to Expect Next
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Projected increase: 2.7% in 2026
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Original announcement date: October 15
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Possible delay: Due to the federal government shutdown
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Impact: Higher benefits for millions of retirees, especially in high-benefit states
Even with delays, retirees can expect the new COLA rates to apply starting January 2026.
Those living in states with larger average benefits will see the most substantial increases in dollar terms.
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