Millions of Americans who depend on Social Security Spousal Benefits are preparing for an increase in their monthly payments in 2026, following the latest Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) announced by the Social Security Administration. While the annual adjustment is designed to offset inflation, experts caution that the modest boost may not significantly improve purchasing power for most retirees, as mentioned in a report by The Motley Fool.
Understanding Social Security Spousal Benefits
To qualify for regular Social Security benefits, an individual must earn at least 40 work credits over their lifetime through consistent payroll contributions. These credits are accumulated through employment, with most workers becoming eligible to claim retirement benefits as early as age 62. However, those who defer their claims until reaching full retirement age receive unreduced benefits.
For individuals who have spent much of their lives outside the workforce, perhaps managing households or caring for family members, Social Security Spousal Benefits provide an alternative source of support. These benefits are available to those married to, or divorced from, someone eligible for Social Security.
In most cases, a spousal benefit amounts to 50% of the spouse or ex-spouse’s full retirement age benefit, offering a crucial safety net for non-working or part-time partners.
COLA for 2026: What Beneficiaries Can Expect
The Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) is introduced each year to ensure Social Security payments keep pace with inflation. In 2025, beneficiaries received a 2.5% increase, reflecting moderate inflation trends. For 2026, the Social Security Administration has announced a 2.8% COLA, slightly higher than the previous year.
Importantly, this adjustment applies equally to those collecting Social Security Spousal Benefits, ensuring that spouses also see a proportional rise in their monthly checks.
However, since spousal benefits are capped at half of a working spouse’s entitlement, the resulting increase will naturally be smaller in absolute terms.
For example, as of August 2025, the average spousal benefit stood at approximately $955 per month. Applying a 2.8% adjustment translates to an estimated increase of about $27 per month, a modest sum that may be further offset by higher Medicare Part B premiums, which are typically deducted from Social Security payments, as per a report by The Motley Fool.
Modest Raise, Mounting Costs
While the COLA is intended to preserve purchasing power, many retirees report that rising housing, food, and healthcare costs continue to outpace these annual adjustments.
For those relying primarily on Social Security Spousal Benefits, the situation is even more constrained. Since the base payment is already lower than standard retirement benefits, even a higher COLA percentage often translates into only marginal gains.
Financial planners advise beneficiaries not to rely solely on the COLA for relief but to explore additional ways to strengthen their financial security. These include reassessing budgets, downsizing to more affordable housing, or exploring part-time or gig-based work to supplement income.
Planning Beyond COLA Adjustments
Experts also recommend that retirees review their long-term financial strategies in light of ongoing inflationary pressures. Some may find opportunities to generate supplemental income through creative means, such as renting out unused property space or relocating to regions with a lower cost of living.
While the Social Security Spousal Benefits program continues to play an essential role in ensuring economic stability for millions of older Americans, the upcoming 2.8% COLA should be viewed as a modest adjustment rather than a transformative financial gain. Beneficiaries are encouraged to take proactive measures to safeguard their retirement well-being.
FAQs
What are Social Security Spousal Benefits?
Social Security Spousal Benefits provide income support to individuals married to or divorced from eligible Social Security recipients, typically amounting to 50% of the working spouse’s full retirement benefit.
Will COLA apply to Social Security Spousal Benefits in 2026?
Yes. The 2.8% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) applies to all Social Security recipients, including those receiving spousal benefits.