Retirement Social Security

Here's How Much the Average Spousal Social Security Check Will Increase in 2026

See what's in store for 2026.

By David Maina

Edited by Laura Hohenstein

Updated Nov. 10, 2025

The Social Security Administration has announced a 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for 2026. That means about 71 million beneficiaries will see slightly higher payments starting in January.

For the 1.9 million spouses and ex-spouses receiving Social Security based on a partner's work record, this 2.8% boost equals about $25 more per month on the average check. The typical retired worker will see a larger increase of roughly $56.

It isn't exactly a windfall, but it helps. A little extra can cover part of the grocery run, a prescription refill, or a higher utility bill. Below, you'll learn how the 2.8% COLA may influence your benefits and what it could mean for your joint retirement plan.

Get instant access to hundreds of discounts

Over 50? Join AARP today— because if you’re not a member you could be missing out on huge perks like discounts on travel, dining, and even prescriptions.

Get 25% off membership — just $15 for your first year with auto-renewal — and a free gift if you join today.

Become an AARP member now

How spousal benefits work

A spousal benefit allows a husband, wife, or eligible ex-spouse to receive Social Security based on their partner's work record. To qualify, the spouse must be at least 62 years old, or younger if caring for a child under 16, and the marriage must have lasted at least one year. For divorced spouses, the marriage must have lasted 10 years.

The maximum spousal benefit is 50% of the worker's full benefit at full retirement age (FRA). FRA is 66-67, depending on birth year. If you start the spousal benefit at your own FRA, you get the full half-rate. If you start earlier, your amount is reduced.

For someone with FRA 67, starting at 62 typically pays about 32.5% of the worker's FRA benefit instead of 50%. That reduced amount becomes your new base, and future COLAs are added on top.

If you qualify for both your own retirement benefit and a spousal benefit, you'll receive whichever is higher. Social Security will automatically add a "top-up" if your spousal amount is larger than your own.

You can begin receiving a spousal benefit as soon as you or your spouse applies for retirement benefits and you meet the age/care requirements. Note that you can't collect spousal benefits and delay your own benefits for a higher amount later; you must apply for both at once.

Who really has the cheapest auto insurance in your area? Check your zip code here.

Average spousal benefit and the 2026 boost

Today, the average spousal benefit is just about $955 a month. Apply the 2026 COLA of 2.8%, and that average rises by about $27 to roughly $982.

To put that into perspective:

A spouse receiving $800 today would get about $822 after the increase.
A spouse receiving $900 would see roughly $925.
A spouse receiving $1,000 would collect about $1,028.

To estimate your own increase, multiply your current amount by 1.028. A $20–$30 bump each month can add up to $240–$360 over a year, which can help with bills, food, or medications.

A few moving parts to watch this year

A few details can change how that 2.8% increase shows up in your bank account. For many retirees, higher Medicare Part B premiums, IRMAA surcharges, or tax withholding can trim the net deposit even as the gross benefit rises.

If you're working and under FRA, the earnings test can temporarily withhold some benefits. That can affect when you see the increase, not whether you get it. After you reach FRA, Social Security recalculates and you're paid at the higher, COLA-adjusted level going forward.

Your payment schedule stays the same, tied to the primary worker's birth date. COLAs apply whether you receive benefits as a current spouse or a divorced spouse. If you later switch to a survivor benefit, all past COLAs follow you to the new, higher amount.

Taxes can hit households differently. The IRS may tax up to 85% of benefits based on combined income, and a few states add their own tax. It's smart to check both levels before adjusting your withholdings. You can set voluntary withholding with Form W-4V or use quarterly estimates if needed.

Finally, make sure your my Social Security account is current. Update your bank details, address, and direct deposit info. Review your annual statement to confirm earnings and benefits. A quick check now, or a short talk with a trusted advisor, can help you capture every dollar you've earned and plan the year ahead with confidence.

Get a protection plan on all your appliances

Did you know if your air conditioner stops working, your homeowner’s insurance won’t cover it? Same with plumbing, electrical issues, appliances, and more.

Whether or not you’re a new homeowner, a home warranty from Choice Home Warranty could pick up the slack where insurance falls short and protect you against surprise expenses. If a covered system in your home breaks, you can call their hotline 24/7 to get it repaired.

For a limited time, you can get your first month free with a Single Payment home warranty plan.

Get a free quote

Bottom line

Social Security will begin sending COLA notices by mail in December with your new benefit amount for 2026. If you use my Social Security, you can check the new figure online as soon as it posts. Once you have the number, plug it into your budget.

Update your broader plan, too. If you built your forecast on last year's check, swap in the higher amount now. For couples, the extra spousal income can add a little breathing room, maybe you delay a withdrawal from savings or cover more of the monthly bills to retire comfortably.

Remember, the COLA exists to help benefits keep pace with inflation. Take a few minutes to confirm your spousal amount on your annual Statement or with SSA's calculators, and use reputable online tools if you have questions.

More from FinanceBuzz: