Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) for Retired Municipal Police Officers and Firefighters
Summary:
Act 21 of 2026 was signed into law by Governor Shapiro. This directs PMRS to provide a Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) for Retired Municipal Police Officers and Firefighters. PMRS will administer the COLA adjustments for our participating municipalities whose police and firefighters are enrolled in our system.
Who is included?
PMRS retired municipal police officers and firefighters who began receiving benefits on or before December 31, 2020.
Exception: If the retiree has submitted a request to opt out of receiving a COLA.
How much is the increase?
COLA increases monthly benefit – per retired member
$75: Member has been retired 5 to 10 years as of 1/1/2026 (1/1/2016 – 12/31/2020)
$150: Member has been retired 10 to 20 years as of 1/1/2026 (1/1/2006 – 12/31/2015)
$300: Member has been retired 20+ years as of 1/1/2026 (on or before 12/31/2005)
Note:
There is a 65% reduction on COLA eligible members who already received post-retirement increases.
When will I see the COLA increase in my retirement payment?
Payments will be made as soon as administratively feasible, retroactive to August 1, 2026.
PMRS will provide more information as it becomes available through email and mail communications to municipalities and our retired police and firefighter members.
If you have any questions regarding the COLA increase, please contact Client Relations.
