Hi there. This month’s newsletter highlights the most important Social Security headlines and deadlines you need to know. From the SSA’s move to paperless payments on September 30 to other timely updates and resources, we’re here to keep you informed and ready for what’s ahead. Please enjoy reading!
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Redesigned RSSA® E-Learning Program: We’re excited to share that NARSSA has officially launched the redesigned RSSA® E-Learning Program. Now powered by the iSpring Learn platform, the course offers a refreshed experience that’s smoother, more interactive, and easier to navigate. Online learning has never been more accessible, and we’re proud to make our education program better, smarter, and more engaging.
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MarketWatch | Should Gen Z and millennials even bother including Social Security in their retirement plans if the program is running out of money?
Should Gen Z and Millennials even bother factoring Social Security into their retirement plans? Despite concerns about the program’s future, NARSSA’s Martha Shedden tells Alessandra Malito why younger generations should still pay attention. Read the story.
Investopedia | How To Make Sure Social Security Will Last Another 90 Years, According to Experts
Policy experts warn Social Security could run dry by ~2034 unless reforms like raising the earnings cap, increasing payroll taxes, or building in automatic adjustments are enacted. Martha Shedden noted that “since 1990, the employer and employee share of the Social Security tax contribution has been 6.2%,” meaning this rate has stayed flat for 35 years, suggesting tweaks may be overdue. Read the story.
CBS News | Social Security cost-of-living adjustment could be 2.7% in 2026, according to new estimate
Social Security beneficiaries are projected to receive a 2.7% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) in 2026, slightly higher than this year’s 2.5%. NARSSA’s Martha Shedden told CBS MoneyWatch that the increase is “not keeping up with seniors’ true expenses,” underscoring concerns that the COLA formula doesn’t fully reflect retirees’ costs. Read the story.
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Full Question: I plan on taking Social Security next year at age 70. I am divorced. I was married to my ex for 12 years and have not remarried. I have worked 44 years. If ex’s Social Security amount is larger than mine will I be entitled to that amount?
Martha’s response: As you were married to your ex-spouse for over 10 years and have not remarried, you are eligible to receive ex-spousal benefits based on your ex-spouse’s record if that amount is higher than your own retirement benefit. The ex-spousal benefit could be up to 50% of your ex-spouse’s full retirement benefit if you claim at your FRA. At age 70, you will automatically receive the higher amount between your own retirement benefit and your ex-spousal benefit…Read the full response.
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💡 Social Security Spotlight: COLA on the Horizon
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Each fall, Social Security beneficiaries eagerly await the announcement of the annual Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA). The COLA helps benefits keep pace with inflation, and it’s one of the most closely watched updates of the year. Here’s what you need to know as we head into October:
When is the annual COLA announced and when does it take effect? The Social Security Administration announces the COLA each October, based on inflation data from the third quarter of the year (July–September). Any increase takes effect in January of the following year. For example, the 2026 COLA will be announced in October 2025 and applied to benefits beginning January 2026.
How is the COLA calculated? The COLA is tied to the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W). SSA compares the average CPI-W from the third quarter of the current year to the same period in the previous year. If the index has risen, benefits increase by that percentage. If inflation is flat or negative, benefits remain unchanged (though they do not decrease).
Does everyone receive the same COLA? Yes, the COLA percentage is uniform across all beneficiaries. However, the dollar amount of your increase depends on the size of your current benefit.
How does the COLA interact with Medicare premiums? This is an important factor. Medicare Part B premiums are usually adjusted each year as well. If premiums rise significantly, they can offset some (or even all) of the COLA increase. However, a “hold harmless” provision protects most.
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📢 Social Security Administration Updates
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Paper Checks Deadline
September 30th is the deadline for SSA’s transition away from paper checks. After that date, benefits will be paid electronically via direct deposit or the Direct Express® card. Limited exceptions remain. ▶️ Watch a video about this update.
Leadership Restructure
SSA announced a new leadership team to strengthen accountability and improve performance. The Operations Department has been restructured into three distinct areas: Field Operations, Processing Centers, and Digital Services.
Commissioner Field Visits
Commissioner Bisignano recently visited SSA field offices in Kansas, New Jersey, and West Virginia to highlight customer service improvements. New technology and updated workflows are reducing wait times and modernizing service nationwide.
Expanded Online Access
SSA added new features to my Social Security accounts, including easier access to personal information, improved digital tools, and stronger identity verification.
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Disclaimer: The National Association of Registered Social Security Analysts, Ltd. has no affiliation with the Social Security Administration or any other government agency. The Social Security information provided in this email and on the website does not and is not intended to constitute financial advice. All information, content, and materials available in this email and on this site are for general informational purposes only.
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