How the NC TSERS COLA works
TSERS has no built-in cost-of-living increase. The General Assembly decides each year whether to grant a permanent raise or a one-time supplement. The last permanent raise was 1% in July 2017. Since then retirees have received one-time payments instead, which do not raise the monthly benefit.
What to expect in 2027
The Retirement Systems boards adopted a policy in 2026 that lets them recommend a COLA when investment gains cover the cost, starting July 2027. Any raise still needs the legislature.
What a COLA is worth over time
On a $3,000 monthly pension, a 2% simple increase adds $60 a month every year, so after 20 years the check is $4,200. A 2% compounded increase reaches about $4,460. A plan with no automatic increase stays at $3,000 unless lawmakers act, and at 3% inflation that check buys about 45% less after 20 years. Our COLA guide compares how other plans handle it.