Missed Nvidia in 2009? This Rare Signal Is Flashing Again. In 2009, a “Double Down” signal flashed for a little-known chipmaker called Nvidia. For the first time in years, that same “Total Conviction” signal is flashing for a company 1\/100th the size of Nvidia. Continue \u00bb<\/a> <\/p>\n Image source: Getty Images. <\/p>\n But before you get too excited to start counting your extra money, it’s important to realize that Social Security’s upcoming COLA may not be the boon to your finances you expect it to be. And there’s a big reason for that. <\/p>\n Why the upcoming COLA may disappoint <\/p>\n The general consensus is that Social Security’s 2027 COLA will be somewhere around 3.5%. This is based on inflation readings for July and August. <\/p>\n If that estimate is correct, Social Security benefits<\/a> could get their largest increase in years. And a 3.5% COLA could boost the average retirement benefit by about $73. <\/p>\n But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. <\/p>\n See, the problem with Social Security COLAs is that they’re meant to keep pace with inflation only. So while a $73 boost might seem nice, it’s more of a catch-up payment to account for the higher prices that have been plaguing seniors since the start of summer. <\/p>\n Also, that $73 average boost does not account for an increase in the cost of Medicare Part B. Seniors who are enrolled in Medicare and Social Security pay their Part B premiums out of their monthly benefits. <\/p>\n We don’t know how much Part B costs will increase in 2027. But whatever the increase is, it will eat into the upcoming COLA to some degree, leaving dual enrollees with a smaller net raise. <\/p>\n Don’t count on the 2027 COLA to improve your finances <\/p>\n Unless the experts are way off, the 2027 Social Security COLA should be pretty significant. But whether that truly improves your finances is questionable. <\/p>\n Sure, a decent-sized raise might make it easier to cover your costs. But if you’ve been having a hard time managing your bills, don’t expect the upcoming COLA to be a magic solution. <\/p>\n Instead, take steps to improve your finances by trimming expenses to the best of your ability and, if needed, giving your retirement income a boost by working part-time. You may also want to consider relocating if you live in an expensive ZIP code. Your Social Security checks might go further in a cheaper part of the country, especially once your 2027 COLA comes through. <\/p>\n The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook <\/p>\n If you’re like most Americans, you’re a few years (or more) behind on your retirement savings. But a handful of little-known “Social Security secrets”<\/a> could help ensure a boost in your retirement income. For example: one easy trick could pay you as much as $23,760 more… each year! Once you learn how to maximize your Social Security benefits, we think you could retire confidently with the peace of mind we’re all after. <\/p>\n Many Americans leave money on the table in retirement. Learn more about these retirement strategies and more, available when you join Stock Advisor. <\/p>\n View the “Social Security secrets” \u00bb<\/a> <\/p>\n The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy<\/a>. <\/p>\n<\/a> <\/p>\n