What the Average Social Security Check Could Look Like in 2027
Though we aren’t even halfway through 2026, those who rely on Social Security in retirement may already be anticipating what their checks will look like next year. Planning ahead is a key part of retirement, especially if living on a fixed or low-income.
While the Social Security Administration (SSA) has not yet announced the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for 2027, organizations that track economic data, inflation rate and retirement costs make predictions.
Here’s what the average Social Security check could look like in 2027.
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The Most Current Benefits Data
The SSA provides a monthly statistical snapshot of its most current data, including the average monthly benefit payment amount. The current snapshot shows that the average retired worker gets $2,081.16 per month in Social Security benefits. That’s up from $2,008.31 toward the end of 2025.
Retirees received a 2.8% COLA in 2026, but according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Consumer Price Index (CPI), inflation is up 3.3% since March 2025, making the COLA not enough to compensate for increased costs.
How Much More the Average Retiree Can Expect To Get Per Month in 2027
So how much will the average retiree be likely to get in 2027? As they await the SSA’s actual determination of their COLA, The Senior Citizens League has predicted that the COLA will be unchanged, at 2.8% again, an increase of about $58.27 per month. However, a recent interview with a financial analyst by CNBC, suggested it could lean closer to 3.2%. Assuming the low end, that would put the average retiree’s check at $2,139.43 per month in 2027.
A Financial Squeeze
Even if retirees see another increase in 2027, many may still feel financially squeezed. Social Security COLAs are designed to help benefits keep pace with inflation, but when expenses rise beyond what the COLA supports, budgets get tight.
Healthcare costs are often the most likely to eat into any increase quickly, especially as Medicare Part B premiums are typically deducted directly from Social Security checks. Some retirees may not feel the full impact of a higher monthly payment.
Predictions can give people a baseline to plan for, but it’s important to remember that the SSA has not officially announced the 2027 COLA yet. The announcement is likely to come mid-October.
This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.
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