WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The government shutdown is causing delays for millions of Americans waiting on the Social Security Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) announcement for 2026.

While Social Security payments will continue as scheduled, the official COLA update, normally released in mid-October, is now expected on Friday, Oct. 24 instead of Wednesday. The delay stems from the Bureau of Labor Statistics postponing the September inflation report, which is essential for calculating the COLA. The Social Security Administration (SSA) is legally required to announce the adjustment before Nov. 1.

Social Security checks, including retirement, disability and Supplemental Security Income (SSI), will not be interrupted during the shutdown. These benefits are funded through dedicated trust funds and

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