Retirement gives many older Americans the freedom to embrace a more hands-on lifestyle.

From gardening and woodworking to travel planning, volunteering, and tackling long-postponed DIY projects, retirement is a time for joy, family, and fulfillment.

As we move toward the end of 2025, let’s recap some updates to Social Security. These changes are helping retirees, and those nearing retirement, to continue enjoying the stability that makes this chapter of life meaningful.

Key Changes to Social Security in 2025

One of the biggest headlines this year was the announcement of the 2026 Cost-of-Living Adjustment. Benefits will rise by 2.8 percent starting in January. This gives Social Security recipients a modest increase to help keep up with rising prices. This adjustment is especially important for retirees who rely on a steady income. It can also provide some extra money to support hobbies, home improvements, and the everyday comforts that make retirement fulfilling.

The Social Security tax cap will also increase in 2026 from $176,100 to $184,500. These contributions help strengthen the system and support long-term benefit stability for future retirees who may be planning a more self-directed, creative lifestyle once they step away from full-time work.

This year also marks Social Security’s ninetieth birthday – a reminder of how the program has supported generations of Americans in building secure and enjoyable retirements.

Taken together, these shifts reinforce the role Social Security plays in helping retirees maintain independence and pursue a fulfilling life after the workforce. And as always, it’s important to remember that these benefits are not gifts or favors. Social Security is something people have earned through a lifetime of work, and it should be paid back in full. To support higher COLAs for all retirees, sign our petition.

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