The Social Security cost-of-living adjustment, or COLA, for 2025 is a 2.5% increase. That means the monthly benefits checks for more than 72.5 million Americans will see their lowest annual bump in four years.

Social Security's 2025 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) took effect in January. Benefits will increase 2.5% this year, the smallest pay bump for seniors since 2021. Indeed, more than half of retired workers surveyed by The Motley Fool in October said the COLA was insufficient.

Wall St. Social Security benefits are rising 2.5% in 2025. The timing of your first higher paycheck depends on your date of birth. There are ways to improve your finances if your COLA isn't enough. Smart Social Security planning could help you retire early.