Few things are more important to Americans' retirement than Social Security. Although Social Security will play a different role in people's retirement income, it's helpful to get a sense of average benefits to get a gist of what to possibly expect and begin putting together a broad financial plan.

The Social Security Administration's recent proposal to increase the retirement age could significantly impact millions of Americans. With the Senate's new bill suggesting a shift to 70 years, retirees and those nearing retirement face potential financial challenges.

When you’ve worked for many years, it’s unsurprising that retirement feels like the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. However, those planning to retire at age 65 may need to reevaluate their current plan as Social Security is raising the retirement age this year.

You lose 5/9 of 1% per month for up to 36 months of early claiming. Those who sign up more than three years early lose 5/12 of 1% per month. So if you sign up immediately at 62, you're actually shrinking your monthly checks by 30%, assuming you have a FRA of 67.

Social Security has been the foundation of retirement income for millions of Americans, but as 2025 unfolds, retirees face growing concerns about its future. Rising costs, potential benefit adjustments and policy changes are all shaping the conversation.

Retirees are being warned to keep their personal information updated with the Social Security Administration or risk losing access to their monthly benefits. More than 70 million Americans rely on Social Security payments each month.

Key Points Social Security’s rules tend to change every year. One 2025 change makes qualifying for benefits harder for some people, but not all. There are surprising ways to qualify for Social Security,