NewsTradingSentimentCalendarCommunityBriefing
Sign in
Markets

US Inflation Data Sets Stage for 2027 Social Security COLA

By Markets Desk · 2026-09-13 · 1 min read
A stack of generic coins and a paper currency bill on a wooden table
Illustration: Tradingbird

August US inflation rose 0.4% month-over-month, pushing the annual rate to 3.4%.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a 0.4% monthly increase in the Consumer Price Index for August. The annual inflation rate stands at 3.4%. This figure exceeds the 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment issued for 2026. Social Security beneficiaries await the final calculation for 2027.

The September data point will complete the three-month average used for the official benefit increase. Estimates from GN markets/inflation (en-US) place the likely adjustment between 3.4% and 3.6%. The final number depends on the upcoming CPI-W release. Persistent price gains suggest a higher payout than last year.

Inflation Forecast Remains Elevated

Trading Economics projects annual inflation near 3.7% for the third quarter. The rate is expected to fall to 3.4% by year-end. Monthly price increases are forecast to stay positive. This indicates continued cost pressure on consumers throughout the period.

COLA Calculation Methodology

The Social Security Administration does not use the headline CPI figure. It relies on the CPI for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers. The agency compares the July-September average against the prior year’s same period. This specific index determines the final benefit percentage.

October 14 Data Release

The BLS will publish September inflation data on October 14. This release finalizes the inputs for the 2027 adjustment. The Social Security Administration will announce the official figure immediately after. Beneficiaries will see the updated amounts in their December payments.

Based on reporting by MARCA, compiled by the Tradingbird desk.

Read next

More in Markets
A traditional Omani souk market stall with woven baskets and fresh produce
Markets · Macroeconomy & Central Banks

Oman Inflation Hits 3.4 Percent in August

Consumer prices in Oman accelerated to 3.4 percent in August 2026, driven by significant increases in transport and food costs. The annual average for the first eight months of the year stands at 2.9 percent, signaling sustained pressure on household budgets.

2026-09-13Illustration: Tradingbird
A traditional market stall with woven baskets and fresh produce
Markets · Macroeconomy & Central Banks

Jordan Inflation Hits 2.2 Percent in Eight Months

Jordan's cumulative inflation reached 2.20 percent through August, driven primarily by housing costs. Monthly rates slowed to 2.66 percent, signaling a reduction in price pressures compared to the previous month.

2026-09-13Illustration: Tradingbird
A cluster of diverse national flags arranged in a circle around a central globe
Markets · Macroeconomy & Central Banks

Iran Urges BRICS to Shift Trade to National Currencies

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian demanded that BRICS nations expand trade in local currencies to reduce reliance on dominant financial systems. He cited vulnerability to political shocks and sanctions as key drivers for this structural shift.

2026-09-13Illustration: Tradingbird

More from the Markets desk

All desk stories