Social Security cost-of-living adjustment is known as a cola. It comes most years but not every year. If there is inflation, you will get it in January if you’re drawing any type of Social Security benefit. You do not have to apply for the cola benefit. A lot of scammers are out trying to get you to click on a link or calling you to apply for your cost of living adjustment. That is a scam. Ignore those people. The cost-of-living adjustment is automatic and you will see it in your January check.