SSI January 2026 Payment: How Much You Get With 2.8% COLA

The Social Security Administration applies cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) to Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits each January when there is an approved increase. For January 2026, a 2.8% COLA raises federal SSI payments. This article explains how that increase is calculated and what you should do to verify your new payment.

What the 2.8% COLA Means for SSI January 2026 Payment

The 2.8% COLA increases the federal portion of SSI payments by 2.8% starting in January 2026. Most beneficiaries will see the higher amount on their monthly payment that month or shortly afterward, depending on payment schedules.

The COLA applies to the federal SSI benefit rate. Some states add a state supplement to the federal payment. State supplements are managed by states and may or may not change with the federal COLA.

Who gets the SSI January 2026 Payment increase

Most SSI recipients who were already receiving federal SSI in December 2025 will receive the COLA increase in January 2026. New recipients who begin benefits later may receive adjusted amounts based on their start date and eligibility.

• Recipients of federal SSI benefits eligible as of December 2025.
• Recipients with active payments who have not had eligibility changes that reduce benefits.
• State supplement recipients should check with their state agency about changes to the supplement portion.

How to calculate your SSI January 2026 Payment with 2.8% COLA

Calculating your new SSI payment is straightforward. Multiply your current monthly federal SSI payment by 1.028 to get the new amount after a 2.8% increase.

Formula: New payment = Current payment × 1.028

Step-by-step example

• Find your current federal SSI payment amount from your December 2025 benefit notice or bank deposit.
• Multiply that amount by 1.028.
• Compare the result to your January 2026 deposit or SSA notice to confirm.

Quick examples showing 2.8% COLA impact

Below are simple examples using round numbers so you can see the typical increase from a 2.8% COLA.

• If your current monthly SSI is $900: $900 × 1.028 = $925.20. Increase = $25.20.
• If your current monthly SSI is $600: $600 × 1.028 = $616.80. Increase = $16.80.
• If your current monthly SSI is $1,200: $1,200 × 1.028 = $1,233.60. Increase = $33.60.

Real-world case study: How the 2.8% COLA affects a typical recipient

Case study: Linda is an SSI recipient who received $750 per month in federal SSI in December 2025. Her state also paid a $50 monthly supplement.

Calculation: $750 × 1.028 = $771.00 (rounded to the nearest cent). Linda’s federal payment increases by $21. Her total monthly payment, including the unchanged state supplement, becomes $771 + $50 = $821.

Note: If Linda’s state reviews supplements after the federal increase, her state supplement could change. Always confirm with the state agency that handles your supplement.

Common reasons your SSI January 2026 payment might look different

• State supplement changes: Not all states adjust the supplement when the federal rate increases.
• Reported income or resources: Changes in your income or living arrangements can change countable income and reduce benefits.
• Benefit offsets: Some benefits, like certain pensions, can reduce the SSI payment even after a COLA.

What to do before and after your SSI January 2026 Payment

Follow these practical steps to make sure you get the correct amount and avoid surprises.

• Check your December 2025 SSA notice. SSA usually sends an annual notice showing the new rate and effective date.
• Compare your January 2026 deposit or statement to the calculated amount using the 1.028 multiplier.
• Contact your state agency if you receive a state supplement to confirm whether it will change.
• Report any changes in income, living situation, or resources to SSA promptly to avoid overpayments.
• Keep records of notices and deposits for easy reference if there is a discrepancy.

If your new payment is lower than expected

First, review recent reports you filed to SSA. Income or resource changes, changes in living arrangements, or other benefits can cause reductions. If you cannot find a reason, contact SSA by phone or visit your local office for clarification.

Appeals are possible if you believe SSA made an error. Keep notices and bank statements to support your case.

Bottom line

The 2.8% COLA for January 2026 increases federal SSI payments by multiplying your current federal SSI amount by 1.028. State supplements may vary, so check with your state agency. Use the calculation method here to estimate your new payment, and contact SSA if your deposit or notice does not match the estimate.

Taking a few minutes to calculate your expected payment and compare it to the SSA notice will help you spot issues early and keep your benefits on track.