Sederia  Steger

For 2026, the federal retirement benefit COLA is ~3%, moving the avg. retired worker check from ~$2K to ~$2.1K/mo before premium deductions.
Standard federal health coverage premiums reached ~$203 in 2026, leaving ~$38 of the monthly COLA before supplemental coverage costs for many retirees.
With typical supplemental coverage costing $8-$12/mo more, the net improvement can land in high-$20s, before drug, dental, and hearing costs are counted.
A retiree advocacy calculation shows benefits lost ~14% purchasing power over the past decade, making personalized income planning increasingly important for retired households.
Treat COLA as a partial offset: consider inflation-linked bonds, dividend-growth income, work income, and tax-aware withdrawal timing before future premium notices arrive.

US Retirees Navigate Healthcare COLA Gap

US regular gas averaged $4.32 on June 1, and price uncertainty could steer some new-car shoppers toward electric vehicles with insurance planning needed.
Electric cars use the same auto policies as gas vehicles: state-required liability, plus required coverages such as personal injury protection where applicable.
Comprehensive and collision coverage matter when drivers want help repairing or replacing an EV after covered incidents, especially with a lease or loan.
EV insurance can cost more because higher sticker prices, harder-to-source parts, and repair costs may affect premiums, making comparison shopping important for buyers.
Potential savings steps: bundle home and auto, consider a higher deductible if finances allow, and improve credit where insurers can use it.