You Have Less Than a Month to Prepare for These 2026 Social Security Changes

There's a key factor that tends to drive a lot of Social Security changes -- inflation. A lot of people are frustrated by inflation these days, since it's been stubbornly elevated for several years. But the fact that Social Security can change to adjust for inflation is a good thing.

In 2026, a number of key Social Security changes are scheduled to take place. Some of those are positive changes, while others may be painful. Here are five changes you need to know about as 2026 gets closer.

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1. Benefits are getting a 2.8% bump

Each year, Social Security benefits are eligible for a cost-of-living adjustment, or COLA. In 2026, Social Security benefits will increase by 2.8%. Once that COLA kicks in, the average $2,015 monthly retiree benefit should increase to $2,071.

However, Social Security recipients who are also enrolled in Medicare pay their Part B premiums out of their benefits. The cost of Part B is rising by $17.90 in 2026, which means some seniors may not get to enjoy their COLA in full.

2. The earnings-test limits are rising

You're allowed to work while collecting Social Security. But if you do so before reaching full retirement age, you'll be subject to an earnings test. Exceeding the earnings-test limit that applies to you will mean having some of your benefits withheld and repaid to you later.

The good news is that Social Security's earnings-test limits are rising in 2026. That means you can earn more money without a negative impact on your monthly benefits.

This year's earning-test limit is $23,400, but in 2026, it will be $24,480. Beyond that point, you'll have $1 in Social Security withheld per $2 of earnings.

The earnings-test limit is higher for people reaching full retirement age within the calendar year. In 2025, the higher limit is $62,160. In 2026, it's increasing to $65,160. Beyond that point, you'll have $1 in Social Security withheld per $3 of earnings.

3. Higher earners will be subject to more taxes

Social Security's primary source of funding is taxes on wages. Each year, there's a limit as to how much income Social Security will tax.

In 2025, that limit is $176,100. In 2026, however, it's rising to $184,500.

If you're a higher earner, you should expect to lose more of your income to Social Security taxes. However, if you're a salaried worker, do remember that you get to split your Social Security tax bill down the middle with your employer.

4. Work credits are getting harder to earn

To become eligible for Social Security benefits as a retiree, you must earn a total of 40 work credits in your lifetime. You earn work credits by making money and paying taxes on that income, and you can earn up to four work credits per year.

In 2025, the value of a single work credit is $1,810. In 2026, it's rising to $1,890, which means people who work part-time may have trouble getting their four credits.

5. The maximum monthly benefit is rising

Some people find Social Security's wage cap unfair, as it exempts higher earners from paying taxes on all of their income. To even things out, Social Security also has a maximum monthly benefit it will pay to retirees.

In 2025, the maximum Social Security benefit at full retirement age is $4,018. In 2026, it's increasing to $4,152.

However, that's just the maximum for people filing at full retirement age exactly. You're eligible for an 8% boost to your monthly benefits for each year you delay your claim past full retirement age, up until age 70. So all told, the maximum Social Security benefit for 2026 is really $5,251 when we account for the delayed retirement credits that come with filing at age 70.

Clearly, the changes Social Security is undergoing in 2026 don't just affect retirees. There are two big changes happening that apply to working folks, too. That's why it's so important to stay aware of Social Security changes -- and take steps to prepare for them as necessary.

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