Scammers are always looking for new ways to target seniors. COLA season is an opportune time for those who seek to defraud older individuals.

One of the latest schemes involves pretending to be from the Social Security Administration (SSA). These fraudsters will call or email, claiming that seniors need to “claim” their 2026 Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) or risk losing it. The goal? To steal personal information like Social Security numbers, bank details, and even payments.

No Need to Claim Your Social Security COLA – It’s Done for You

It’s important to know that you do not need to take any action to receive your COLA. The SSA automatically applies it to your benefits – no calls, forms, or claims necessary. If someone contacts you saying you need to claim it, that’s a red flag.

These scammers often sound professional and convincing. They may use scare tactics, saying your benefits will stop or you’ll miss out on the increase if you don’t act immediately. They’ll ask for personal information, claiming they need it to “verify” your identity or process your COLA.

Here’s what you need to know: the SSA will never call you out of the blue and ask for your personal information. Any changes to your benefits, including COLA increases, are automatic. If you receive a suspicious call or email, don’t engage. Hang up or delete the message, and report the scam to the SSA’s Office of the Inspector General.

Staying informed is the best defense against these scammers. Always protect your personal information and remember that legitimate organizations, including the SSA, will never ask for sensitive details over the phone or via email. By staying vigilant, you can safeguard your benefits and avoid falling victim to these dangerous schemes.