The Economic Times

Who receives the January 21, 2026 Social Security payment - How do COLA and Medicare Part B premiums affect net benefits?

On Wednesday, January 21, 2026, millions of Americans will receive their Social Security payments featuring the new 2.8% COLA boost. This second wave of January distributions targets beneficiaries with birthdays between the 11th and 20th. The average retired worker now sees a monthly check of $2,071, a $56 increase from 2025. However, rising Medicare Part B premiums of $202.90 may offset these gains for many households.