In 2024, Social Security recipients received a 3.2% adjustment. The average retired worker benefit lands at roughly $1,900 per month, so that amounts to a raise of just over $60 per month. Unfortunately, retirees can expect some not-so-good news about the short- and long-term future of Social Security.

The next cost-of-living increase for Social Security recipients — which was already projected to be the lowest in years — is continuing to fall even lower, according to the latest figures from the Labor Department.

That number isn't set in stone, and a lower COLA could translate to lower costs for everyday expenses. There's still time for that number to improve. Even if it doesn't, things may not be so bad. Millions of older Americans rely on their monthly Social Security benefits to make ends meet.