Every fall, retirees look forward to Social Security’s cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). It’s meant to protect against inflation and keep benefits aligned with rising prices. But in 2026, experts warn that much of the expected boost could be canceled out by higher Medicare Part B premiums. For retirees living on fixed incomes, this tug-of-war between COLA and healthcare costs is more than just numbers—it’s a real threat to financial stability. Here’s what retirees need to know about the 2026 COLA and looming Medicare hikes.
