But when we look back at the data, it becomes clear that a 2.5% Social Security COLA isn't so terrible. In fact, it's a lot more generous than some of the COLAs beneficiaries have seen in the past. In 2024, Social Security benefits rose by 3.2%. The year prior, they increased by 8.7%. And in 2022, a 5.9% COLA came through.

Even if you're in line for the maximum possible benefit, you might be surprised at how much more you can get by waiting.

The second round of November’s Social Security payments, worth up to $4,873 for the highest-income earners who retire at age 70, will go out to the second group of retirees in five days. Here is everything you need to know about this month’s Social Security payments, which go out in three rounds.

A good rule of thumb to figure out your retirement savings needs is to come up with an annual income you expect to need, subtract your annual Social Security benefit, and then multiply the remaining number by 25.

The most direct and obvious effect of the new COLA is the increase in monthly benefits. If your monthly Social Security benefit is $1,000 this year, it will be $1,025 starting in January 2025. If it's $2,000 now, it'll be $2,050.

The next round of November's Social Security payments are headed out to recipients in a few short days. If you're expecting a check this coming week, we'll tell you when you'll get it.

Social Security's rules are shifting in 2025 -- for better and worse. Seniors might benefit from a boost to their monthly benefits and a higher earnings-test limit. Some workers may be unhappy to learn that their Social Security tax burden is about to soar.

I have been saving up some emails from readers who want to know how other government benefits might affect their eligibility for Social Security, or vice versa. In other words,