2026 COLA for Social Security Disability (SSD)
Updated for 2026 COLA rates
Every year, the Social Security Administration (SSA) looks at information about consumer prices and adjusts Social Security disability (SSD) and retirement benefits to keep pace. Social Security benefits to over 75 million Americans will increase by 2.8% for the year 2026.
Other Annual Adjustments for 2026, Including Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)
Social Security makes other adjustments at the same time as the COLA. One of these is the amount of income that is subject to withholding for Social Security. This year, that cap is increasing from $176,100/year to $184,500/year.
The amount of monthly income that Social Security considers “Substantial Gainful Activity” (SGA) is increasing to $1,690/month for 2026. If you have any questions about working while applying for Social Security disability, please call your Disability Help Group Senior Advocate at 800-800-3332.
How the Social Security / SSD COLA is Determined
The Social Security Act provides for how the COLA is calculated. The Social Security Act ties the annual COLA to the increase in the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W) as determined by the Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- In 2022, the COLA for Social Security benefits was 5.9%
- In 2023, the COLA for Social Security benefits was 8.7%
- In 2024, the COLA for Social Security benefits dropped to 3.2% but was still above the average increase
- In 2025, the COLA for Social Security benefits was 2.5%
For 2025 COLA information, see below
2025 COLA Information
The SSA increased benefits by 2.5% for 2025. They also made other adjustments at the same time as the COLA. One of those changes was the amount of income that is subject to withholding for Social Security. That cap increased from $168,600/year to $176,100/year.
The amount of monthly income the SSA considers “substantial gainful activity” (SGA) also increased in 2025, from $1,550 to $1,620. The cut-off for blind applicants increased from $2,590 to $2,700.
Help for SSD Applicants
SSD can be a lifeline for people who are no longer able to earn a living due to medical problems. Unfortunately, most SSD claims are denied. Whether you are just preparing to apply or have been denied SSD benefits and want to appeal, Disability Help Group is here for you. Our experienced advocates understand the processes and how the SSA assesses claims. We can help you put together the strongest claim package or appeal possible. To learn more, call 800-800-3332 or fill out our contact form here.
This article was reviewed and fact-checked by Scott Layden Jr., Senior Advocate at Disability Help Group. The information included is based on current Social Security Administration announcements, Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) data, and publicly available SSA guidelines regarding benefit increases and Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) thresholds. This content is provided for general informational purposes only. Social Security rules, benefit amounts, and eligibility considerations may vary based on individual circumstances. Readers are encouraged to speak directly with a qualified Social Security Disability advocate for guidance specific to their situation.
FAQ: 2026 Social Security Disability (SSD) COLA
What is the 2026 COLA for Social Security Disability benefits?
The 2026 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for SSD benefits is 2.8%, helping your benefits keep pace with inflation.
When will the 2026 COLA take effect?
The increase applies to benefits paid starting in January 2026, so your first payment in the new year will reflect the adjustment.
How much more will I receive with the 2026 COLA?
The amount varies depending on your current benefit. For example, a $1,500 monthly benefit would increase by $42, for a new total of $1,542.
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