First Social Security stimulus payment of 2026 with COLA adjustment arrives on this date — who qualifies and how much beneficiaries will receive

First 2026 Social Security payments start January 14. They carry a 2.8% COLA boost for 71 million Americans. Retired workers average $2,071 monthly, up $56 from $2,015. Couples hit $3,208. Medicare Part B premiums at $185 cut net gains. SSI paid December 31. Direct deposit speeds 99% of checks. SSA projects $1.6 trillion yearly payouts.