SSA faces new privacy and funding chaos amid court battles, political attacks, and debates over benefit cuts—90+ years of social safety net under fire.
The Social Security Administration announced a 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for 2026, raising average monthly benefits by about $56 to $2,071 for 75 million Americans. The increase was delayed due to the government shutdown and reflects moderating inflation, but critics argue it remains insufficient for retirees facing rising costs.