In 2022, Social Security Beneficiaries Will See the Biggest Increase in 39 Years

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The year was 1983: The U.S. invaded Grenada. A gallon of gas cost 96 cents. Michael Jacksons Thriller video premiered. That year was also the last time that Social Security recipients saw a cost-of-living increase steeper than the one just announced for 2022. This year, Social Security benefits will rise 5.9 percent, the sharpest upsurge since 1983s 7.4 percent jump.
Cost-of-living increases are tied to the consumer price index, and rising inflation rates and gas prices caused by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic mean Social Security recipients will get a large boost in 2022. The 5.9 percent increase dwarfs last years 1.3 percent rise, and over the past decade hikes have averaged just 1.65 percent. The average monthly benefit of $1,565 in 2021 will go up by $92 a month to $1,657 a month for an individual beneficiary, or $19,884 yearly.
The cost-of-living change also affects the maximum amount of earnings subject to the Social Security tax, which will grow from $142,800 to $147,000.
For 2022, the monthly federal Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payment standard will be $841 for an individual and $1,261 for a couple.
Part of the increase will be eaten up by higher Medicare Part B premiums, however. The standard monthly premium for Medicare Part B enrollees has not been announced yet, but it is projected to rise $10 a month to $158.30. And the 5.9 percent Social Security increase may not be enough for seniors to keep pace with rising health care and prescription drug costs.
Youre glad that you get a 5.9 percent increase, but it doesnt feel like youre getting 5.9 percent when all of your other costs are going up much higher,saidNancy Altman, president of the advocacy groupSocial Security Works.
Most beneficiaries will be able to find out their specific cost-of-living adjustment online by logging on tomySocial Securityin December 2021. While you can still receive your increase notice by mail, you have the option to get thenotice online instead.