Cost-Of-Living Adjustment (COLA)

Since 1975, Social Security's general benefit increases have been based on increases in the cost of living, as measured by the Consumer Price Index. We call such increases Cost-Of-Living Adjustments, or COLAs. We determined a 3.6-percent COLA on October 19, 2011. We will announce the next COLA in October 2012.

Social Security program information

• COLA History
• How the COLA is applied to Social Security retirement benefits
• Effect of the 3.6-percent COLA on average Social Security benefit amounts
• Benefit tables where special eligibility rules apply

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program information

• Effect of the COLA on SSI payment amounts
• COLA used to determine SSI earned income exclusion for students
• Fee charged to States for Federal administration of State supplementary payments

Other information

• Fee for services performed as a representative payee
• Attorney assessment fee