Learn how the government shutdown is delaying the Social Security COLA increase announcement and what it means for your benefits next year. Discover how staff cuts, rising Medicare costs, and inflation are shaping the future of payments millions rely on.
In today’s update, learn what’s happening with Social Security payments during the ongoing government shutdown, including how the delay affects the 2026 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), benefit schedules, and Medicare premiums. Understand why the COLA announcement was pushed back, what the expected increase means for retirees, and how government staff cuts and political debates are adding pressure to the Social Security system. This impacts retirees including SSI (Supplemental Security Income), SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance), survivors, VA, and spousal benefits. This update explains the connection between inflation, rising healthcare costs, and your benefits, helping you stay informed about the shutdown’s real impact on Social Security recipients across the country.
Social Security Update: Shutdown Delays & Future Check Increases
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If you need help with Medicare, please contact Medicare, your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP), your current Medicare insurance agent/broker/plan, or feel free to contact my Medicare partner, Chapter, at 615-639-1937. Chapter: Memoir, Inc. d/b/a Chapter is a privately-owned, data and technology-enabled advisory that helps older Americans navigate retirement. Insurance agency services are provided by Chapter Advisory, LLC, a licensed health insurance agency and wholly owned subsidiary of Memoir, Inc. In California, Chapter Advisory, LLC does business as Chapter Insurance Services (Lic. No. 6003691).
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