2026 By the Numbers: What You Need to Know
To make smart decisions, you need the current data. The financial landscape has shifted for 2026. Use these verified figures to plan your budget.
| Category | 2025 Figure | 2026 Figure (New) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) | 2.5% | 2.8% |
| Taxable Earnings Cap (Max income subject to SS tax) |
$176,100 | $184,500 |
| Earnings Limit (Under FRA) ($1 withheld for every $2 earned) |
$23,400 | $24,480 |
| Earnings Limit (Year Reaching FRA) ($1 withheld for every $3 earned) |
$62,160 | $65,160 |
| Full Retirement Age (FRA) | 66 & 10 months (Born 1959) |
67 (Born 1960+) |
Data Sources: Social Security Administration (SSA) Updates & COLA Fact Sheets 2025-2026.
Why FRA Matters More Than Ever
For anyone born in 1960 or later, the Full Retirement Age is now 67. This is the age at which you get 100% of your earned benefit. If you file for spousal or divorced benefits before 67, your check will be permanently reduced—often to as little as 32.5% or 35% of the primary earner’s amount, rather than the full 50%.
