While recent reports suggest that seniors may be overreacting to the 2025 Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) increase, there are valid reasons for disappointment.
Although cooling inflation might sound reassuring, it doesn’t mean prices are dropping — only that they’re not increasing as quickly.
Here’s why the 2025 COLA increase is a situation that deserves criticism, and illustrates the shortcomings of this program toward retirees.
The 2025 COLA Increase is Underwhelming in Today’s Economy
Many essentials, like groceries, rent, and healthcare, remain at elevated levels compared to a few years ago, meaning that even a 2.5 percent COLA increase might not provide the relief seniors truly need.
The 2.5 percent adjustment is average in some respects, but it doesn’t account for the unique inflation seniors face in healthcare and daily essentials. While general inflation has moderated, key living expenses continue to put substantial financial strain on older Americans. Fixed-income seniors, who rely on Social Security as a primary source, are particularly vulnerable when these expenses rise without a corresponding adjustment that reflects their true cost of living.
Seniors should not have to accept subpar increases to Social Security benefits year after year while their living costs continue to climb. For many, the goal isn’t luxury but stability and the ability to cover basic necessities. As advocates for seniors, we believe the Social Security COLA should be adjusted to accurately reflect these rising costs.
To ensure that future COLA adjustments genuinely meet the needs of seniors, we’re calling for changes that make Social Security adjustments fairer and more responsive to the real financial challenges older Americans face.
Join us in advocating for a better future – sign our petition for a fairer COLA today!
