A Message from Our President, Dan Bott
“I believe it’s our job to not just inform you of the changes coming from the Social Security Administration, but to explain what they truly mean for your financial future. In this guide, we’ll break down the 2026 numbers and share my personal perspective on what you should be watching for.” — Dan Bott, President of Trajector Disability
The 2026 Social Security Disability Changes: A Quick Look
- Official numbers will be announced in mid-October 2025.
- COLA Increase: A Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) is projected to be around 2.7%.
- SGA Limits: Monthly income limits for Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) are expected to increase.
- Work Credits: The earnings needed to earn a work credit will also rise.
This page will be updated with all final numbers as they are announced by the Social Security Administration.
Each year, the Social Security Administration (SSA) makes several key adjustments to its programs to account for changes in the national economy. These changes are crucial to both current beneficiaries and new applicants. While the official numbers for 2026 are not yet confirmed, strong projections provide a clear picture of what to expect.
The 2026 Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA)
The most significant change for anyone receiving benefits is the annual COLA. The purpose of the COLA is to ensure your benefits keep up with inflation.
- Projected COLA: Based on the latest inflation data, the 2026 COLA is projected to be 2.7%. This number is based on analyses from organizations that track inflation, like The Senior Citizens League.
- What it means for you: A 2.7% increase will boost monthly benefits for all recipients of SSDI, SSI, and other Social Security benefits. For the average SSDI recipient, this would mean a monthly increase of around $40-$45.
- First Check with the Increase: You will see this new COLA reflected in your January 2026 payment.
New Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) Limits
Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) is the monthly income limit that determines if your work activity disqualifies you for disability benefits.
- Projected 2026 SGA: The official numbers are not yet available, but the SGA limits are expected to increase from the 2025 amounts.
- Non-Blind Individuals: The 2025 limit is $1,620. This is expected to rise.
- Blind Individuals: The 2025 limit is $2,700. This is also expected to rise.
- Why it’s important: If your work earnings exceed this limit, the SSA may determine that you are no longer disabled, which could lead to a loss of benefits. The SGA increase is especially important for those who are in a “trial work period” and are trying to return to work.
Changes to Work Credits
To qualify for SSDI, you must have earned enough “work credits” by paying Social Security taxes. The amount of earnings needed to acquire one credit changes each year.
- Projected 2026 Work Credits: The amount required to earn one work credit in 2025 is $1,810. This is expected to increase slightly in 2026 to reflect national wage growth.
- What it means for you: For most applicants, this change is minor, but it’s an important detail for those on the cusp of eligibility, especially younger workers. You can still earn a maximum of four credits per year.
The President’s Take: What These Changes Really Mean
- On the COLA: The Bigger Picture of Your Budget “While the 2.7% COLA is welcome news, the real challenge for our clients is that their household budgets don’t follow a simple inflation formula. We are seeing a lot of our clients struggle with the rising cost of essentials that aren’t fully captured by the COLA, especially projected increases in Medicare Part B premiums. While the average benefit will increase by about $40, a significant portion of that may be lost to higher healthcare costs.”
- On SGA Limits: A Small Step for Work Incentives “I view the SGA increase as a positive sign that the SSA is trying to keep its program rules aligned with today’s economy. It allows our clients a bit more flexibility to try to work part-time or explore a return to the workforce without the fear of immediate financial penalty. My advice to all our clients and readers is the same: The numbers are important, but what truly matters is your specific situation. Don’t try to navigate these changes alone.”
How to Use This Information
While the final numbers are still to be confirmed, this article provides a crucial look ahead. The biggest takeaway is that benefit amounts and work limits are trending upward, which is good news for recipients.
Need help navigating these changes? Our team is here to help you understand how these new rules and numbers affect your specific case.
Contact us today for a free consultation.
FAQs
Will Social Security benefits increase in 2026?
Yes, Social Security benefits are expected to increase in 2026 due to the annual Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA). The official COLA percentage will be announced in October 2025.
What are the new SGA limits for 2026?
The official Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) limits for 2026 have not yet been released. However, they are expected to be higher than the 2025 limits of $1,620 for non-blind individuals and $2,700 for blind individuals.
When will the official Social Security changes for 2026 be announced?
The Social Security Administration typically announces the new COLA, SGA limits, and other program changes in mid-October, after the release of the September inflation data.
How does the 2026 COLA affect my SSDI payment?
The 2026 COLA will increase your monthly SSDI payment by a percentage that is determined by the SSA. This is designed to help your benefits keep pace with inflation. Your first payment with the new COLA will be in January 2026.
How much will I need to earn for a work credit in 2026?
The amount of earnings required to earn one Social Security work credit is expected to increase in 2026 from the 2025 amount of $1,810. The official number will be announced in mid-October.