Social Security COLA Estimates for 2027 Adjusted Downward Amid Inflation Moderation
Recent data indicates that the Social Security cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for 2027 may be lower than previously anticipated. Mary Johnson, an independent Social Security and Medicare policy analyst, has revised her estimate for the 2027 COLA to 3.4%, down from her earlier prediction of 3.7% and a June forecast of 4.7%. This adjustment follows the release of new Consumer Price Index (CPI) data showing a moderation in inflation. The COLA is an annual adjustment designed to help Social Security and Supplemental Security Income benefits keep pace with inflation. Historically, the average COLA has been around 2.6%, but recent years have seen higher adjustments due to inflation spikes, with increases of 5.9% in 2022 and 8.7% in 2023. The Senior Citizens League and AARP have also adjusted their forecasts, estimating the 2027 COLA at 3.6% and 3.5%, respectively. 
