what is the projected social security cola for 2027

The projected Social Security COLA for 2027 is around 3.8% to 4.7% , with current estimates clustering near 3.9% and one higher estimate at 4.7%. The final official number will not be announced until October 2026.

What the estimates show

• 3.9% is a widely cited current forecast from the Senior Citizens League.

• 4.7% is a higher estimate from analyst Mary Johnson.

• Earlier forecasts were lower, including 2.8% to 3.1% , but projections have moved up as inflation data changed.

What that could mean

A COLA in the 3.9% range would lift monthly benefits noticeably, though it may still be offset by rising Medicare and other living costs. A 4.7% increase would be the larger of the current estimates and would give retirees a stronger boost.

Timing

Social Security’s official 2027 COLA will be announced in October 2026 , based on inflation data through the third quarter. Until then, all figures are projections rather than final results.

TL;DR

Current projections point to a roughly 3.9% COLA for 2027, with some forecasts as high as 4.7%.