The Employee Trust Funds Board recently approved the  Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS) contribution rates for calendar year 2025.  Effective January 1, 2025, the WRS rates applied to school district employee salaries and wages will be as follows:

• Employer Contribution: 6.95% (increase of 0.05 percentage points)

• Employee Contribution: 6.95% (increase of 0.05 percentage points)

There are many factors that affect WRS contribution rates, such as investment performance, legislative adjustments to benefit levels, demographics, etc.

Increased rates for 2025 are a result of salary increases that were more than assumed, although these were partially offset by good investment performance.  For more information about the 2025 rates, the actuarial valuation report and presentation are available in the board meeting materials.

The annual actuarial valuation incorporates current economic and demographic data into the existing financial condition of the WRS in order to set new contribution rates for the system.  It is normal for contribution rates to fluctuate somewhat from year to year, based on investment earnings, wage inflation, and demographic trends.  Benefits being paid to current annuitants are not affected by these rate changes.

For more information regarding the 2025 contribution rates please contact the Employer Communication Center at 1-877-533-5020.