Recent forecasts concerning Social Security's 2026 COLA suggest the average retiree will receive an additional $48 to $54 per month in benefits next year.

Every year, Social Security is eligible for a COLA. When inflation remains flat, Social Security benefits remain flat. When there's a decrease in inflation from one year to the next, Social Security benefits also remain flat.

Social Security's cost-of-living adjustment could rise 2.7%. But Medicare Part B premiums are set to rise even more, eating most of the COLA.