Independent publisher · Source: Social Security Administration (SSA)
Take your time with this page. Each step is short.
You can do one step today and the next one tomorrow.
👉 START WITH STEP 1On this page💻 Step 1: online, if you have an account
If you have a my Social Security account, the SSA says the notice appears online in late November.
That is up to three weeks before the paper notice.
A family member can help you log in, if you like.
ssa.gov/myaccount
📬 Step 2: by mail in December
If you get paper letters, the notice comes by mail in December. It is one page.
The letter comes from the Social Security Administration. Look for it among your December mail, and keep it with your other important papers once you have read it.
Open it when it comes. Read it slowly.
🧾 Step 3: what it shows
The notice shows the exact dates and amounts of your new benefit. It also shows any deductions.
Read it slowly. If something is not clear, you can contact the SSA at ssa.gov.
Keep a pen nearby to write down the new amount.
📅 Step 4: the dates
SSI: higher payments start December 31, 2026.
Social Security: the increase starts with January 2027 payments.
If you get both, write both dates on your calendar.
🏥 Step 5: Medicare
The 2027 Medicare premium appears in the Message Center in late November.
If it comes out of your benefit, it is already counted on the notice.
You can also read about Medicare at medicare.gov, or ask a family member to look with you.
📁 Step 6: keep it safe
Keep the notice with your important papers. A family member can help you file it.
You may need it later, for taxes or other forms. A simple folder is enough.
A simple folder is enough.
ssa.gov/cola
⚠️ Watch out for
Calls asking for your Social Security number. Texts with links about your raise. Anyone asking for money.
The SSA does not ask for money to send your notice.
If someone calls about your raise, hang up and call the SSA from the number on ssa.gov.
❓ Questions you may have
Do I need to do anything?
No. The notice comes online or by mail.
Can my family help?
Yes. A family member can help you log in or read the letter.
When will my payment change?
Social Security: January 2027. SSI: December 31, 2026.
Where can I read more?
At ssa.gov/cola.
ssa.gov/cola · SSA page
50 Pleno is an independent publisher, not affiliated with the Social Security Administration, Medicare or any government agency. We don’t process benefits and never ask for personal information. Independent guide. Not affiliated with any government agency.