India, Jan. 28 -- Millions of Americans will get the final wave of Social Security payments for the month on January 28, 2026. The Wednesday payout targets retirees born between the 21st and 31st of any month. The maximum check hits a record $5,181 for high earners who delayed benefits until age 70. This month, all beneficiaries are witnessing a boost due to the 2.8% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA), adding an average of $56 to monthly checks to counter inflation.

Retirement funds follow a birthday-based schedule, but Supplemental Security Income (SSI) follows the calendar. A rare shift takes place on January 30 this year. SSI recipients will receive their February payment two days early as February 1 falls on a Sunday.

For SSI househol...