US Social Security Begins 2026 Payments on January 14 with COLA Increase

The US Social Security Administration will begin distributing the first 2026 payments on January 14, delayed due to the 2026 calendar starting on a Thursday. Over 70 million beneficiaries, including retirees, disability recipients, and survivors, will receive payments staggered by birthdate to ease banking system strain. The 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment raises average monthly benefits to $2,071. Payments for those born later in the month will follow on January 21 and 28, with some SSI recipients paid earlier in December 2025.