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1. The annual benefit adjustment formula is set forth in the Act.

• See 42 U.S.C. § 415(i).

2. The new figures for the following year are published in the Federal Register in late October.

• See, e.g., 69 Fed. Reg. 62,497 (2004).

3. A week or so earlier the agency releases a summary to the press.

• See, e.g., Social Security Press Release, "Social Security Announces 2.7 Percent Benefit Increase for 2005" (Oct. 19, 2004).