2027 COLA Could Outpace Medicare Premiums

In 2026, retirement benefits got a ~3% cost-of-living bump, adding about $56 to the avg. monthly check for recipients across the US.
But standard Part B premiums ↑nearly 10%, swallowing about one-third of that increase and showing why retirees should budget from net benefits, not headline adjustments.
Current projections suggest 2027 could be friendlier: the advocacy group expects a ~3%-4% benefit adjustment, while the program's trustees projected Part B premiums ↑~3%.
Those figures remained estimates. An official 2027 benefit update was due in Mid-Fall, with the actual Part B premium increase expected later.
For planning, underestimate how much of any raise will reach your bank, review budgets early, and prepare for current open enrollment running Oct. 15-Dec. 7.