MERIDIAN, Miss. — Social Security recipients across Meridian and East Mississippi will see bigger benefit checks starting early next year.
The Social Security Administration announced Wednesday a 3.6% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for 2027, up from the 2.8% increase provided in 2026. The federal increase impacts nearly 72 million Americans, providing financial relief for local retirees, disabled individuals, and surviving dependents throughout Lauderdale County and the surrounding area.
For the average retired worker in the Queen City, the adjustment adds about $75 more per month — roughly $900 more per year — depending on individual benefit amounts.
“Social Security will implement this cost-of-living adjustment for 76 million Americans, giving them greater financial stability,” said Commissioner Frank J. Bisignano. “Under President Donald J. Trump, Social Security is delivering better, faster, higher-quality service for the American people.”
Key Dates & Details for Meridian Residents:
When payments arrive: The new rate takes effect in January 2027, with some initial adjusted checks arriving in late December 2026 depending on standard payment schedules. For those receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI), increased payments begin Dec. 31, 2026.
Online & mail notifications: Individual COLA notices detailing new exact benefit amounts and deductions will be posted online in late November. To view notices early, residents must set up a my Social Security account and opt into paperless notices by Nov. 18. Mailed notices will reach East Mississippi mailboxes in December.
How it’s calculated: Annual adjustments are based on third-quarter Consumer Price Index (CPI-W) inflation data covering July, August, and September.
Tax limits: The standard Social Security tax rate remains 7.65%. The maximum amount of earnings subject to Social Security tax will increase from $184,500 in 2026 to $192,300 in 2027.