When retired women apply for Social Security benefits, they receive smaller monthly checks. Here's a closer look at how much the average woman gets from Social Security compared to the average man. There are a few key reasons women tend to receive smaller Social Security checks than men.

The Social Security changes largely only affect the highest and lowest earners, meaning most average earners in Wisconsin will not be impacted.

The cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for 2025 is indeed a most notable change in Social Security for 2025, but it's not an Earth-shattering one. The COLA, effective in December 2024, is just 2.5%. So if you were collecting, say, $2,000 per month, you'd now be getting $2,050.

Social Security can generate real income. The more you earned during your working life, up to each year's income caps, the more you receive in benefits during your retirement. In 2024, someone with maximum credits who waits until age 70 will receive almost $60,

There aren't many social programs in the U.S. that have had as much of a positive impact as Social Security retirement benefits. For most recipients, it's a well-earned benefit after years of paying Social Security payroll taxes.

Navigating Social Security can be complex, but knowing your Full Retirement Age (FRA) is crucial for maximizing your benefits.