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COLA

Stay informed on the latest COLA updates for federal retirees, including annual Cost‑of‑Living Adjustment announcements, calculation methods, and policy changes that affect retirement income under FERS and CSRS. Explore clear explanations of how COLA percentages are determined, historical trends in federal retiree COLAs, and the impact of inflation on long‑term financial security. Find timely analysis, legislative developments, and expert insights to help federal retirees understand how annual COLA changes influence their purchasing power and overall retirement planning.

Higher Inflation Last Month: Bigger 2027 COLA for Retirees?

FedSmith.com author Ralph R. SmithBy Ralph R. SmithMay 12, 2026 12:50 PM Categories Retirement Leave a comment

April inflation jumped to 3.8%, raising expectations for a larger 2027 COLA for Social Security recipients and federal retirees under FERS and CSRS.

Iran Conflict Jolts Inflation Higher—And Clouds the Outlook for the 2027 COLA

FedSmith.com author Ralph R. SmithBy Ralph R. SmithApr 10, 2026 10:51 AM Categories Retirement Leave a comment

March inflation jumped due to the Iran war, raising early 2027 COLA projections and adding uncertainty. The final outcome now depends on energy prices this summer.

Why FERS Retirees Need More Than a Pension to Beat Inflation

FedSmith.com author Dallen HawsBy Dallen HawsApr 2, 2026 8:25 AM Categories Retirement Leave a comment

Federal retirees face COLA gaps and inflation risk. A balanced TSP strategy and financial margin are key to protecting long-term purchasing power.

Inflation Report Offers Clues on 2027 COLA—But Iran Conflict Is a Wild Card

FedSmith.com author Ralph R. SmithBy Ralph R. SmithMar 11, 2026 9:47 AM Categories Retirement Leave a comment

Inflation is moderate, suggesting a 2027 COLA of 2–3%. However, oil prices and geopolitical risks could raise inflation before the October finalization.

Comparing the Federal Pay Raise and COLA: A 20-Year Historical Perspective

FedSmith.com author Ian SmithBy Ian SmithDec 12, 2025 7:35 AM Categories Retirement, Pay & Benefits Leave a comment

Federal pay raises and COLAs both adjust income annually—see how they compare historically and impact federal employees and retirees.

Complete Guide to FERS Special Provision Retirement

FedSmith.com author David FeiBy David FeiDec 11, 2025 8:13 AM Categories Retirement Leave a comment

This detailed guide will help federal employees understand the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).

Retirement Payments Set to Rise: Breaking Down the 2026 COLA

FedSmith.com author Ralph R. SmithBy Ralph R. SmithOct 24, 2025 9:44 AM | Updated: Dec 1, 2025 3:08 PM Categories Retirement Leave a comment

The 2026 COLA has been announced after being delayed by the government shutdown. How much is it and who will receive it?

Delayed CPI Release Postpones 2026 COLA Calculation: Implications for Federal Retirees and the Workforce

FedSmith.com author Ralph R. SmithBy Ralph R. SmithOct 11, 2025 10:25 AM Categories Retirement Leave a comment

Government shutdown delays CPI data — and the 2026 COLA with it. Federal retirees and Social Security recipients face uncertainty over next year’s benefit increase.

When Do Federal Retirees Start Receiving COLAs? A Complete Guide

FedSmith.com author Dallen HawsBy Dallen HawsOct 8, 2025 8:26 AM Categories Retirement Leave a comment

Discover how federal retirees can safeguard their pensions against inflation with COLAs—when they start, how much they are, and why they matter!

From Inflation to Benefits: What the CPI Reveals About the 2026 COLA

FedSmith.com author Ralph R. SmithBy Ralph R. SmithSep 11, 2025 10:16 AM Categories Retirement Leave a comment

Federal retirees could see a 2.8% COLA boost in 2026—September’s CPI will decide the final increase in benefits.

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