Millions of Americans are set to receive their Social Security benefits in January 2026—the first payment of the new year.

Why It Matters

More than 70 million people rely on Social Security each month for vital income support, whether through retirement , disability or survivor benefits. Because of the program's size, the Social Security Administration (SSA) staggers payments across the month to keep the system running smoothly.

January also marks the first month that the cost-of-living adjustment, known as the COLA, for 2026 is set to be reflected in most benefit payments. Beneficiaries across all SSA programs will receive a 2.8 percent boost, the government agency confirmed in October.

What To Know

Most beneficiaries are paid based on the day of their birth, but some follow differ

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