2027 Social Security COLA seen at 3.2%–3.6%, likely boosting average checks

Analysts project a 2027 Social Security cost‑of‑living adjustment between 3.2% and 3.6%, which could add about $67 a month to the average retiree’s benefit (roughly $2,092/month). The official COLA will be announced in October and take effect in January. Inflation has cooled overall but remains pressured by healthcare and energy costs, and rising Medicare premiums can offset gains; the system’s long‑term solvency is a concern, with projections of insolvency by 2032 if reforms aren’t enacted. Debates also continue over CPI measures (CPI-W vs CPI-E) used to calculate COLA.