Social Security Updates Boost Payments, Digital Access in 2025

The average Social Security payment for retirees in 2025 is $1,907, reflecting a 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) over the previous year, though individual benefits vary based on work history and age at retirement. The 2025 COLA, one of the lowest in recent years, has led to disappointment among recipients, and early predictions suggest the 2026 adjustment could be even smaller, potentially around 2.3%, due to cooling inflation. However, changes in tariff policy could increase inflation and, in turn, boost the COLA above current estimates. Meanwhile, administrative adjustments within the Social Security Administration, including significant staff reductions and longer wait times, may lead to payment delays and challenges for beneficiaries seeking assistance. The SSA is also introducing secure digital access to Social Security Numbers via mobile devices to improve convenience, though concerns remain about data security. Overall, retirees face a mix of modest benefit increases, administrative changes, and economic uncertainty affecting future payments.