New Delhi, Jan. 8 -- Americans who are set to get Social Security benefits will be receiving larger payments in 2026 as the federal government is making adjustments to allow benefits to remain at pace with inflation.

The increase has been termed cost-of-living adjustments (COLA).

The 2026 Social Security payment calendar has also been modified to a certain degree.

In 2026, payments of Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) have gone up by 2.8% for 75 million Americans from the 2.5% in 2025. It was before the New Year's holiday that the increased payments were first distributed.

The maximum amount of earnings which will be subject to Social Security tax has also been increased to $184,500.

For workers younger than reti...