Social Security 2026: 10 critical things every American saver and retiree must know

Big changes hit Social Security and retirement in 2026. These updates touch every saver and retiree across America. Social Security benefits rise 2.8% with the new COLA. That's $56 more monthly on average, pushing retired worker checks to $1,976. Medicare Part B premiums climb to $185, up 5.9% from last year. IRA limits jump to $7,000. 401(k) caps hit $23,500, plus super catch-ups to $11,250 for those 60-63.