Retirees Received a 2.8% Cost-of-Living AdjustmentThe most visible of the 2026 Social Security changes is the 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment, or COLA, that took effect for Social Security benefits beginning in January. Higher Earners Can Pay Social Security Tax on More IncomeWorkers encounter a different number in 2026 because the maximum amount of earnings subject to Social Security tax increased from $176,100 in 2025 to $184,500. The $200,000 worker, however, pays Social Security tax on the first $184,500 rather than stopping at 2025’s $176,100 ceiling. Workers Need $1,890 to Earn One Social Security CreditAnother change is easy to overlook because it affects the credits workers accumulate toward future Social Security eligibility rather than the amount deposited into a retiree’s bank account today. 7 Factors That Matter More Than AgeDon’t Trust the Caller ID: How to Spot Medicare and Social Security Scam CallsReceived a Social Security Overpayment Notice?