4 Social Security Changes Retirees Need to Know About in 2026
The Motley Fool
by newsfeedback@fool.com (Selena Maranjian)February 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Social Security remains a cornerstone of retirement income for many Americans, offering financial stability during one’s golden years. However, retirees must stay informed about upcoming changes to ensure they maximize their benefits. In 2026, several key updates will impact how Social Security operates, including adjustments that could either boost or reduce benefit checks significantly. With an average monthly payment of $2,075 as of January—an annual total of nearly $25,000—it’s more crucial than ever to understand these shifts and plan accordingly.
One major change in 2026 involves the Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA), which is designed to help benefits keep pace with inflation. Retirees may see an increase in their benefit checks if COLA reflects higher prices, though the exact adjustment will depend on economic conditions. However, another significant update could affect spousal and survivor benefits, potentially altering how these payments are calculated and distributed.
Additionally, changes to the Full Retirement Age (FRA) for Social Security benefits may impact
Verticals
financeinvesting
Originally published on The Motley Fool on 2/14/2026