The 2.8% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) for 2026 will have a direct impact on individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in New York State who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).
Here’s how:
1. Increase in Monthly Benefits
- SSI recipients will see their monthly federal payment standard rise from $967 to $994 for individuals, and from $1,450 to $1,491 for couples.
- SSDI recipients will also receive a 2.8% increase. For example, the average monthly benefit for disabled workers will go from $1,586 to $1,630.
2. Timing of Payments
The COLA adjustment will be reflected in SSI payments starting December 31, 2025, and in SSDI payments starting January 2026.
3. Challenges Many Members Will Continue to Face Despite the Increase
- In New York, where the cost of living is relatively high, even a modest increase like 2.8% may not fully meet the needs of individuals with IDD.
- The CPI-W, used to calculate COLA, does not accurately reflect the spending patterns of people with disabilities, who often face higher healthcare and housing costs.
- Rising Medicare premiums and deductibles may offset much of the COLA increase, especially for those who are dually eligible for Medicare and SSI/SSDI.
- A recent survey found that many SSI and SSDI recipients feel the COLA is insufficient, with some delaying medical treatment or adjusting budgets in anticipation of the increase.