We receive a 5.9% increase, due to the Cost Of Living raise.

Then the cost of Medicare Medical Insurance increases each year.

So, the total 5.9% increase, isn't totally being given to Social Security Recepient.

Also, if you receive EBT (Food Program), it's a joke! The raise will decrease amount you receive tremendously.

It reminds me of the phrase, it beats a blank!

I hope you understand, my questions, per my comments.

Thank you in advance, for your response.

Hi. I don't see a question in what you've written, but it's clear that you're unhappy with the current system. I don't know anything about the food stamp rules, but everything you've stated about Social Security and Medicare is basically correct. Social Security cost of living (COLA) increases are added before deductions, and after deductions for items such as Medicare premiums the actual increase in a person's benefit payment can amount to less than the full COLA amount.

All I can tell you is that the regulations that determine Social Security benefit rates, COLAs, and Medicare premium amounts are written by and voted into law by Congress. The only people who can change Social Security laws are members of Congress, so you should direct any concerns that you have about Social Security's regulations to your congressional representatives.

Best, Jerry