Many Social Security beneficiaries will soon receive their first benefit checks for 2026.
Jan. 14 marks the earliest date beneficiaries can receive January payments, depending on the Social Security Administration’s schedule based on date of birth.
Those checks will include a 2.8% benefit boost, thanks to a cost-of-living adjustment for 2026 that was announced in October.
This year, beneficiaries will see higher premiums for Medicare Part B medical insurance that may take a bite out of those checks. The standard Part B premium is climbing to $202.90 per month — a $17.90 or 9.7% increase over 2025.
Here’s what Social Security beneficiaries should watch for, and when they can expect their first 2026 check.
