More than 71 million Americans rely on Social Security benefits each month to cover basic expenses. On Wednesday, February 18, 2026, millions of recipients will receive their next scheduled payment, which reflects the 2.8% cost of living adjustment (COLA) for 2026.
Social Security Administration (SSA) follows a clear payment schedule every month in February 2026. Payments will be made based on the retiree’s, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) beneficiary’s and survivor beneficiary’s date of birth and when they first began receiving benefits.
Social Security is the largest federal benefit program in the United States, providing assistance to retirees, disabled workers, survivors of deceased workers, and low-income seniors. Pensions are based on a person’s lifetime earnings and employment history. Simply put, people who have earned more over the years will typically receive higher monthly payments. Choosing when to receive benefits is also important, starting at age 62 will lower the monthly amount, while waiting until age 70 will increase the monthly amount.
Who is eligible to receive wages on February 18, 2026?
Beneficiaries born between the 11th and 20th of any month who began receiving pension, SSDI or survivor benefits after May 1997 are scheduled to receive payments on that date.
Pension payments begin at age 62, but early withdrawal permanently reduces monthly payments. Full retirement age is between 66 and 67, depending on year of birth, with payments increasing after delaying benefits until full retirement age.
SSDI requires a qualifying disability and sufficient work credits. The condition must be severe and expected to last for at least 12 months or result in death.
SSI is income-based and has strict asset limits. Individuals must meet financial thresholds and be 65 years or older, blind or disabled.
Also read: Social Security payments arrive on February 18th: are you on the list? Check eligibility
Social Security Payment Schedule for February 2026
Your date of birth determines precisely the date of your Social Security payment. For retirees and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) Beneficiaries who began receiving benefits after May 1997
Payments are made on Wednesday and divided into three groups:
Born between the 1st and 10th: Payment is made on the second Wednesday of each month (February 11, 2026).
People born between the 11th and 20th: Payable on the third Wednesday of each month (February 18, 2026).
Born between the 21st and 31st: Payable on the fourth Wednesday of each month (February 25, 2026).
Social Security Benefits and COLA Increases in 2026
In 2026, Social Security benefits increase by 2.8% due to annual cost of living adjustments. The adjustment is tied to inflation data and is designed to help beneficiaries maintain purchasing power as consumer prices rise.
Average monthly benefits updated in February 2026 are:
Retired worker: $2,071
Workers with disabilities (SSDI): approximately $1,630
Surviving spouse: approximately $1,919
By 2026, Social Security retirement benefits could top out at $5,181 per month for high earners who defer taking them until age 70, but most people will receive less. Retirement pensions can be collected starting at age 62, but claiming them early will reduce the monthly payment. Full retirement age is between 66 and 67, with benefits increasing the longer you wait.
