What does Social Security announce in October?

The next year’s COLA, plus the new maximum taxable earnings (wage base), the retirement earnings-test limits, the maximum benefit at full retirement age, and the earnings needed for a work credit.

Why is the COLA announced in October specifically?

The COLA depends on CPI-W inflation for July, August, and September. The September figure is released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics in mid-October, which is the last data point SSA needs to finalize and announce the number.

When do the new Social Security numbers take effect?

In January. Higher payments begin with January benefits, and the new tax and earnings-test limits start with the new year.

Does October change when I get paid?

No. Your payment date depends on your date of birth (or when you started benefits), not the COLA announcement. October sets next year’s amounts, not the schedule.

Why October Is a Big Month for Social Security

By SocialSecurityNews Editorial Team · Last reviewed June 8, 2026 · How we review

Every October, Social Security reveals the most important numbers for the year ahead — the COLA, and the figures that travel with it. Here is what gets announced, why it happens then, and when it takes effect.

Each October, the Social Security Administration announces the numbers that shape benefits for the year ahead — most famously the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), but several others too. Here is why that month matters and what to watch for.

What gets announced in October

When SSA reveals the COLA, it releases a fact sheet with the other key figures for the new year at the same time, including:

The COLA percentage applied to retirement, survivors, disability, and SSI benefits.
The new maximum taxable earnings (the "wage base") — the most of your income subject to Social Security tax.
The retirement earnings test limits — how much you can earn before benefits are temporarily withheld if you claim before full retirement age.
The maximum benefit at full retirement age and the earnings needed for a work credit.

So October isn't just about the raise — it's the annual reset of the program's core dollar figures.

Why it happens in October

The COLA is based on inflation (CPI-W) for July, August, and September. The September reading is published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics in mid-October — the final piece SSA needs. Once it's in, SSA calculates the COLA and announces it, typically the same morning.

When the changes take effect

The new figures apply starting in January. Higher benefit payments begin with January's checks, and the new tax and earnings-test limits start with the new year. SSA posts personalized COLA notices in December, and you can view your new amount in your my Social Security account in early December.

What to do when the numbers drop

Retirees: check your new monthly amount in December, and remember Medicare Part B premiums can offset part of the raise.
Still working and claiming early? Note the new earnings-test limits.
High earners: the new wage base affects what you pay in. Our COLA tracker keeps the current figures handy.

This article is for general education and is not financial advice. Confirm current figures at ssa.gov/cola.

Frequently asked questions

What does Social Security announce in October?: The next year’s COLA, plus the new maximum taxable earnings (wage base), the retirement earnings-test limits, the maximum benefit at full retirement age, and the earnings needed for a work credit.
Why is the COLA announced in October specifically?: The COLA depends on CPI-W inflation for July, August, and September. The September figure is released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics in mid-October, which is the last data point SSA needs to finalize and announce the number.
When do the new Social Security numbers take effect?: In January. Higher payments begin with January benefits, and the new tax and earnings-test limits start with the new year.
When will I see my new benefit amount?: SSA posts personalized COLA notices in December, and you can view your new amount in your my Social Security account in early December.
Does October change when I get paid?: No. Your payment date depends on your date of birth (or when you started benefits), not the COLA announcement. October sets next year’s amounts, not the schedule.

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