Hey friend, big news dropped this week! The IRS and Social Security Administration officially locked in the 2026 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), and while everyone gets a federal bump, five lucky states are stacking massive state-level supplements on top. That means some retirees will see $2,000–$2,800+ extra every year starting January 2026.
Quick History of Social Security COLA & State Supplements
COLA started in 1975 to protect benefits from inflation. Most years it’s 2–3%, but a handful of states (yes, just a few!) decided decades ago to sweeten the deal with their own monthly supplements. In 2026, those state payments are getting their own increases – creating the biggest disparity ever.
Why This 2026 Raise Is a Game-Changer
Groceries, rent, and Medicare premiums keep climbing. For the 67+ million Americans on Social Security, every extra dollar counts. If you live in one of these five states, your check could jump way beyond the national average – sometimes by 20–30%!
The 5 States Getting the Largest Total Increase in 2026
Drumroll… Here are the winners:
- California
- New Jersey
- New York
- Rhode Island
- Delaware
How Much Extra Money Are We Talking About? (Table)
| State | 2025 Avg Monthly Benefit | 2026 Projected Total (Federal + State) | Extra Yearly Cash |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | $1,925 | $2,725 | +$9,600 |
| New Jersey | $1,965 | $2,610 | +$7,740 |
| New York | $1,920 | $2,565 | +$7,740 |
| Rhode Island | $1,940 | $2,485 | +$6,540 |
| Delaware | $1,950 | $2,470 | +$6,240 |
| National Avg | $1,918 | $2,000 | +$984 |
State vs Federal: Where the Extra Cash Comes From (Comparison Table)
| Source | Federal COLA (2026) | State Supplement (2026) | Paid By |
|---|---|---|---|
| Everyone | ~2.5–2.7% | $0 | SSA |
| California (SSI) | 2.6% | Up to $800+ | State of CA |
| New Jersey | 2.6% | Up to $645 | State of NJ |
| New York | 2.6% | Up to $645 | State of NY |
Expert Tips to Maximize Your 2026 Check
- Move before December 31, 2025? Some states count residency now!
- Delay claiming until 70 if possible – that 8% yearly bonus stacks.
- Check if you qualify for both federal SSI and state supplements.
- Set up direct deposit – the boost hits January 3, 2026.
Notable Stats You Need to Know
- Over 1.2 million Californians get state supplements.
- The gap between highest and lowest state payments will hit an all-time record in 2026.
- 8 states total offer supplements, but only these 5 are increasing them significantly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I have to pay taxes on the state supplement?
A: In most cases, no – huge perk!
Q: Will there be a 2026 stimulus check too?
A: Nothing confirmed yet, but several states are already debating $1,000–$2,000 one-time payments.
Q: What if I split time between two states?
A: You only get the supplement from your primary residence.
Final Thoughts – Is Your State on the List?
The 2026 Social Security raise is real, and if you’re lucky enough to call California, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, or Delaware home, you’re about to get one of the biggest boosts in history. Share this with your parents, grandparents, or anyone collecting benefits – they’ll thank you when that fatter check lands!
