Tips for Beneficiaries for March 2026

If you receive Social Security benefits, here are a few practical tips for March:

• Verify Your 2.8% COLA Increase: The 2026 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) of 2.8% will be reflected in all payments.
• Review Medicare Part B Premiums: The standard Part B premium is increasing to $202.90 for 2026, which may be deducted now.
• Check Your Birthdate Group: Ensure you know your exact payment date based on your birthday (1st-10th, 11th-20th, or 21st-31st) as outlined above.
• Use Direct Deposit: Ensure your direct deposit information is updated on SSA.gov to avoid delays, as paper checks are being phased out.
• Budget for “No Payment” in March: Because the February and March SSI payments are both paid in February 2026, plan your finances to cover the March 1st gap.

P.S.: For full control of your benefits and notices, consider creating a mySocialSecurity account on the SSA website.

Bottom Line

In April 2026, Social Security payments include a 2.8% COLA, bringing the average monthly retirement benefit to about $2,071.

Payments go out on April 8, 15, or 22 based on your birthday, while SSI recipients are paid early on April 1.

Maximum benefits remain much higher for those who delayed retirement, reaching over $5,100 per month.

P.S.: Due to the calendar in 2026, there will be a five-week wait between the April payment and the May payment.