More than 1.3 million people in Wisconsin rely on Social Security benefits. In 2026, several important changes will affect both retirees who receive benefits and workers who pay into the system. From a cost-of-living adjustment to the end of paper checks, these updates are expected to bring both opportunities and challenges.
This guide explains the upcoming changes in a simple way so you can plan ahead.
Cost-of-Living Adjustment in 2026
Every year, Social Security benefits increase slightly to keep up with inflation. This is called the Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA).
- In 2026, the COLA is expected to be 2.8%, which means the average recipient will get about $52 more each month.
- In 2025, the increase was 2.5%, which was the smallest rise in three years.
While the boost may help, many experts warn that higher Medicare premiums could reduce the real benefit of this increase.
Retirement Age Going Up
You can start taking Social Security at age 62, but you will not get full benefits until you reach the full retirement age. That age is slowly increasing and will rise again in 2026.
Here’s a simple table showing the full retirement age based on your year of birth:
| Year of Birth | Full Retirement Age |
|---|---|
| 1943–1954 | 66 years |
| 1955 | 66 years + 2 months |
| 1956 | 66 years + 4 months |
| 1957 | 66 years + 6 months |
| 1958 | 66 years + 8 months |
| 1959 | 66 years + 10 months |
| 1960 or later | 67 years |
Example: In 2025, a person retiring at 62 could receive a maximum of $2,831 per month. If they waited until the full retirement age, they could get $4,018 per month. Waiting until age 70 increased the maximum benefit to $5,108 per month.
Work Credits Will Cost More
To qualify for Social Security when you retire, you need 40 work credits. You can earn up to four credits each year, but the value of a credit goes up annually.
- In 2025, one credit required $1,810 in earnings.
- To get all four credits in 2025, you had to earn $7,240.
- In 2026, the amount will rise again, though the official figure has not been announced yet.
This change is especially important for part-time workers, caregivers, and parents who may not earn full-time wages.
Paper Checks Will End
Starting in October 2026, Social Security will no longer send paper checks.
Instead, benefits will be paid only through:
- Direct deposit into a bank account, or
- A Direct Express Debit Mastercard.
If you still get a paper check, you must switch to electronic payment by September 30, 2026.
Some Workers Will Pay More Taxes
Social Security is mainly funded by payroll taxes. Workers and employers each pay 6.2% of wages up to a yearly wage cap.
- In 2025, the wage cap was $176,100. Anyone earning that much or more paid a maximum of $10,918 in Social Security taxes.
- In 2026, the wage cap will rise again. This means some higher-income workers will pay more into Social Security.
Anyone earning above the wage cap pays the same amount in Social Security taxes, even if their income is much higher.
Payment Schedule in 2025
Before the 2026 changes, here’s how payments are going out in 2025:
- Social Security checks: Paid on Wednesdays, depending on your birth date.
- SSI checks: Paid on the same day each month to all recipients.
The year 2026 will bring major updates for Social Security in Wisconsin. Retirees will see a 2.8% COLA increase, the retirement age will rise, work credits will be more expensive, and paper checks will end. At the same time, high earners will pay more in Social Security taxes.
While these changes are designed to strengthen the program, they also mean beneficiaries and workers should plan carefully for the future. Staying informed now can help you make better financial choices later.
FAQs
How much will benefits go up in 2026?
The average increase is expected to be about $52 per month with a 2.8% COLA.
Can I still get a paper check in 2026?
No. Starting in October 2026, you must use direct deposit or Direct Express card.
What is the new full retirement age?
For people born in 1960 or later, the full retirement age will be 67 years.