This week, benefits will be paid to recipients whose birthdays fall between the 11th and 20th of any month.

The average Social Security check ranges from $1,814 to $2,196 by state, but higher payments don't always mean an easier retirement. Here's where your dollar goes furthest.

Social Security's 2.8% COLA for 2026 brings a raise for retirees, but deductions like Medicare premiums may reduce how much of that increase you actually see.