Here’s what we cover in this episode:

💵 The Real Raise: average benefit increase is only about $54 a month

🏥 Medicare Impact: higher premiums can erase much of that gain

💰 Smart Retirees Plan Ahead: strategies for what you can do right now

🧾 Check Your Estimate: review benefits on SSA.gov and update your plan

🤝 Take a Team Approach: financial + tax + healthcare planning under one roof

Your Guide:

💼 Want expert help in planning for your financial future?

Apply for a consultation here 👉 https://calendly.com/erg-kc/introductory-phone-call-with-erg

This October, the Social Security Administration is expected to announce a 2.7% cost-of-living adjustment for 2026. Now that sounds like good news, until you see what it really means in dollars and cents. Today, Scott breaks down what the new Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) really means for you, and why rising Medicare premiums, taxes, and inflation can easily cancel out your “raise.”

Dive Into This Episode:

0:00 – Intro

0:43 – Understanding the 2026 COLA

1:15 – What this mean in real dollars

2:21 – Why it matters

3:01 – What smart retirees should do now