The rules for collecting Social Security are changing in 2026.

Two of the most important things to know if you’re collecting benefits: Your monthly check payments will increase, and if you’re planning on collecting benefits before retirement age and still plan to work, your checks could be reduced or even paused.

For more on this, read on.

The 2026 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) will increase benefits

Social Security benefits and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments for 75 million Americans will increase 2.8% in 2026, the Social Security Administration (SSA) announced on Friday.

However, due to inflation and the skyrocketing cost of living, many retirees might not actually be getting more for their hard earned dollars.

Each year the SSA announces a cost-of-living adjustment,

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