Use AI to understand your Social Security letter

Your 2027 cost-of-living notice is coming. AI can explain what each line means in plain words. Keep your private numbers out of the chat, and check anything important with Social Security.

Social Security announced a 3.6% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for 2027. It starts with January 2027 payments. Most people will see a notice in their my Social Security account in late November, or get it in the mail in December. The notice shows your new amount and anything taken out, like a Medicare premium. If a line doesn't make sense, an AI chat can explain it.

Take out the private parts first

Before you paste or type anything, leave out your name, address, Social Security number, Medicare number, and bank details. AI doesn't need them to explain the letter. You can type the lines you want explained, with the amounts rounded, or use blanks like [MY NEW AMOUNT].

Example: "My Social Security COLA notice for 2027 says my benefit before deductions is about [AMOUNT], then lists a Medicare premium, then a final amount. Explain in plain words what each line means and why the amount I get might go up by less than 3.6%. Don't guess at numbers you don't have."

Ask what changed and why

Ask AI to compare last year's letter with this year's, line by line, using the rounded amounts. Ask what each deduction usually is and what you could ask Social Security or Medicare about it. Have it make you a short list of questions to keep by the phone.

Watch for fake letters and calls

COLA season brings scams. Social Security won't threaten you, ask for gift cards, or demand payment to "keep" your raise. If a call, text, or email feels off, stop and check it. See our guide to checking a scam message.

Things to know

• AI can explain words and lines, but only Social Security knows your real amounts. For questions about your own benefit, use ssa.gov or call Social Security.
• Medicare changes for 2027 are on medicare.gov. Picking a plan this fall? See our guide to Medicare open enrollment.
• Never paste your Social Security number, Medicare number, or bank account numbers into any AI chat.

Also read: Using AI to get ready for Medicare Open Enrollment

Also read: How to use AI to check if a message is a scam