For 90 years, hardworking Americans have paid into Social Security with the promise that it will be there when they need it. With every paycheck, every shift, and every year on the job, they earned it. Today, more than 69 million Americans count on those monthly payments to help cover the basics, like groceries, bills, and keeping up with the cost of living.
As we mark Social Security’s 90th anniversary on August 14, AARP is proud to celebrate its legacy of supporting folks who’ve spent their lives working, raising families, and paying in. But we’re also looking ahead.
For generations, the ability to retire with dignity rested on Social Security, pensions, and personal savings. Yet, less and less of today’s employers offer pension plans, and many Americans struggle to save enough through 401(k)s or IRAs alone. More than ever, seniors rely on Social Security for financial stability after they stop working.
If Congress doesn’t act, Social Security faces a funding shortfall in less than a decade. Starting around 2034, Social Security would only be able to pay about 81 cents for every dollar owed. This funding gap doesn't mean Social Security is going broke. It means that our elected leaders must act to strengthen Social Security today, so it’s strong tomorrow. It's not too late.
Every Social Security payment should go to the right person, on time and in full. That’s not too much to ask. American workers held up their end of the deal. Now Washington needs to hold up theirs. We’re fighting to protect and strengthen Social Security, not only for older Americans today, but for our kids and grandkids tomorrow.
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Americans might not always see eye to eye on everything, but on Social Security we do. Social Security isn’t a partisan issue, it’s personal. A recent national survey shows that Americans across the political spectrum value Social Security and want it protected. In fact, 96% of respondents said Social Security is important, with nearly three-quarters calling it one of the most important initiatives in the country.
We all agree on how important Social Security is, but confidence is slipping. Only 36% of Americans say they’re confident Social Security will be there when they need it. That number has dropped significantly in just the last five years. Nobody wants a pay cut, especially not after working for decades. And no American should have to wonder if what they paid in will be there when it’s their turn to retire.
Your voice deserves to be heard. And we’re working across the country to make sure your message is delivered to Washington loud and clear: We won’t accept a pay cut. We expect action. And we’re ready to protect what we’ve earned.
AARP is listening to you—and fighting for you. We’re hosting town halls, meeting with lawmakers, and bringing communities together nationwide to celebrate Social Security’s legacy and demand action that protects and strengthens Social Security. Every American deserves to get the Social Security they’ve earned through a lifetime of hard work. No matter what side of the aisle you’re on, we can all agree: Social Security matters more than ever.
Stand with us. Sign the pledge to protect and strengthen Social Security at aarp.org/WeEarnedIt
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