Social Security cost-of-living adjustment could be 2.7% in 2026, according to new estimate

[DFW]

3. To me, that elicits a yawning "that's nice."

I am still paying $10,000 a year into the system (still working full time), plus the Germans take out about 50% of the payments I do receive (no 15% freebie if you are taxed overseas).

So, while I’m always happy to receive what is left over, something always being better then nothing, when you are paid in Dollars and live in Euros—an effective 15% income reduction for me this year so far—and about 72% of my SS payout goes right back into government coffers, some people will get a bigger thrill out of the news than I did. I should note that some need it more than I do, so, good for them, I say!