If you’re among the 74.5 million Americans receiving Social Security or claiming soon, 2026 brings a wave of changes that affect your retirement — including a new age rule. Here's what to know.

Key Takeaways A government shutdown could delay the announcement of the cost-of-living adjustment to Social Security benefits.Social Security beneficiaries will no longer receive physical benefit checks via mail.

Social Security benefits increase each year to keep up with rising prices. This yearly boost is called the Cost-of-Living Adjustment, or COLA. For 2026, For 2026, experts expect the COLA to increase by around 2.

Starting in 2026, the Social Security Administration will implement significant tax rule adjustments affecting benefit taxation and payroll contributions for workers and retirees across the U.S. These changes,