The 1 Social Security Problem Congress Can't Fix That Could Cost America Dearly

For 84 years, Social Security has been doling out monthly benefit checks, without fail, to eligible retired workers. Even though the average retired-worker check totaled just a little over $1,900 in January 2024, this payout represents a necessary source of income to make ends meet for the vast majority of current and future retirees.

Unfortunately, the program that tens of millions of aging Americans have come to rely on for their financial well-being is on ever-shakier ground.

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