For most Americans, Social Security is more than just a monthly check -- it's a financial lifeline that's necessary for seniors to cover their expenses.

Since 2002, national pollster Gallup has surveyed seniors annually to determine their reliance on Social Security income. According to the results, between 80% and 90% of retirees noted they lean on their Social Security check in some capacity to make ends meet.  This is why netting a hearty payout is so important to its more than 49 million current retirees, and the program's countless future beneficiaries.

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Source Fool.com