Social Security recipients will receive a 3.6% cost-of-living increase in 2027

The cost-of-living adjustment, the largest this decade, will add $75.15 monthly on average but may still fall short of covering rising expenses for seniors.

Social Security recipients will receive a 3.6% cost-of-living adjustment in 2027, marking the largest increase since 2022. The Senior Citizens League reports this will amount to an additional $75.15 per month on average for beneficiaries.

Despite the significant increase, advocates warn it remains insufficient for many older adults facing elevated costs. Shannon Benton, executive director of the Senior Citizens League, stated that seniors have watched expenses outpace benefits for years. A survey by the league found 89% of older Americans deemed the 2.8% adjustment that took effect this year inadequate.

The adjustment is calculated using inflation data from July through September and relies on an index that advocates argue does not accurately reflect older adults' spending priorities, which include higher medical, prescription drug, and housing costs. About 44% of older adults depend entirely on Social Security for income.