As the first 2026 Social Security payments begin landing next week, millions of retirees, SSDI recipients, and SSI beneficiaries will see updated benefit amounts tied to the 2026 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). For many households, this is the most important “financial reset” of the year—because the new payment level affects monthly budgeting, Medicare withholding, tax planning, Continue reading
Social Security
March 2026 Social Security Payment Schedule: Key Dates to Know
Knowing the March 2026 Social Security payment schedule helps you plan rent, groceries, prescriptions, and automatic bills around your expected deposit date. Social Security generally pays benefits on a predictable calendar based on when you first started receiving benefits and, for many people, your birth date. The Social Security Administration also avoids sending payments on Continue reading
Social Security Disability: SGA Limit Raised to $1,690 ($2,830 Blind)
In 2026, the Social Security Administration (SSA) announced updated income thresholds known as Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limits that determine eligibility for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and related disability benefits. These limits are a central part of disability law in the United States and have been revised for 2026 based on national average wage Continue reading
Double SSI Payment of $1,830 Coming in February 2026 Due to Early March Shift
Millions of Americans receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) will notice something unusual in February 2026. Eligible recipients may receive a double SSI payment totaling up to $1,830 due to a calendar-related payment shift. This adjustment is not a bonus or new stimulus, but a routine scheduling change made by the Social Security Administration (SSA). The Continue reading
Medicare 2026: $202.90 Part B Premium Cuts Seniors’ Increase
The 2026 Medicare changes are shaping up to affect millions of Americans, especially seniors and retirees on fixed incomes. One of the biggest news items is the rise of the Medicare Part B monthly premium to $202.90, which marks a near 10 percent increase from 2025 and will influence Social Security benefits, out-of-pocket healthcare costs, Continue reading
Oregon Residents to Receive $1.4 Billion “Kicker” Tax Refund
In a significant development for taxpayers in Oregon, the state has confirmed a $1.4 billion “kicker” tax refund that residents can claim when they file their 2025 state income tax returns in 2026. This is one of the largest refunds under Oregon’s unique tax law, which returns excess state revenue to taxpayers when actual collections Continue reading
SSA Announces Early February 2026 SSI Payment as March Benefits Arrive Ahead of Schedule
Millions of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients may notice an early deposit in late February 2026. While it may feel like an additional payment.This adjustment follows federal scheduling rules, and understanding its cause can prevent confusion for the March payment cycle. The Social Security Administration (SSA) confirmed that March SSI benefits will be released ahead Continue reading
Survivor Benefits: Get Up to 100% of Spouse’s Payment + $255 Lump Sum
When a worker who paid Social Security taxes dies, Social Security Survivor Benefits can replace a major source of household income. In many cases, a surviving spouse can receive up to 100% of what the deceased worker was receiving (or was entitled to receive), depending on the survivor’s age and situation. In addition, some families Continue reading
2026 Social Security: Earnings, Credits, and Benefits Up to $184,500
In 2026, Social Security rules are built around one big idea: your covered earnings determine how much you pay into the system and how much you can potentially receive later. The headline figure this year is the maximum taxable earnings limit of $184,500. That single number affects payroll taxes, benefit calculations, and what it takes Continue reading