The average Social Security benefit in 2027
After the 3.6% cost-of-living increase, the average retired worker's Social Security benefit is estimated at $2,170 a month in January 2027, up from $2,095. That is $75 more a month, or $900 over the year.
| Household | Before the COLA | After the COLA | More a month |
|---|---|---|---|
| All retired workers | $2,095 | $2,170 | $75 |
| Aged couple, both receiving benefits | $3,238 | $3,355 | $117 |
| Aged widow or widower alone | $1,936 | $2,005 | $69 |
| Widowed mother and two children | $3,932 | $4,074 | $142 |
| Disabled worker, spouse and one or more children | $2,970 | $3,077 | $107 |
| All disabled workers | $1,642 | $1,701 | $59 |
What the averages mean
These are Social Security's estimates of the average benefit for each kind of household, before and after the 2027 increase. Your own benefit depends on your earnings record and the age you started, so it can be far from the average. Use the COLA calculator to apply the 3.6% increase to your own check.
Married couples
For an aged couple who both receive benefits, the average is $3,355 a month after the increase. A spouse can receive a benefit on their own record or up to half of the worker's full benefit; the claiming age guide explains how starting early cuts a spouse's benefit.
Survivors and disability
An aged widow or widower living alone averages $2,005 a month after the increase, and the average disabled worker $1,701. People on disability who work should know the 2027 earnings thresholds on the disability thresholds page.
The highest possible benefit
The maximum for someone retiring at full retirement age in 2027 is $4,188 a month, and more at 70. See the maximum benefit by age.
When the first increased payment arrives
The increase shows up in the payments made in January 2027. The 2027 payment schedule shows the dates for every birthday.
Check our work
Every figure on this page was read from these official documents. Follow the links and compare.
- 2027 Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) Fact SheetSocial Security Administration. Read on November 12, 2026.