BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) — If you or someone close to you intends to collect Social Security payments soon, you might notice a considerable reduction in the amounts received within the next few years.
A recent report from the Social Security Board of Trustees indicates that the trust funds designated for old-age and disability benefits are now anticipated to be depleted by 2034, which is a year sooner than what was predicted before.
"Seventeen percent of our community depends exclusively on Social Security for their livelihood," stated Kyle Lucey, a retirement planning expert from Trinity Wealth Advisors in Williamsville.
Although Social Security mainly relies on a payroll tax and isn’t disappearing completely, recent projections incorporate adjustments stemming from the Social Security Fairness Act passed in January. This legislation boosted benefits and moved up the anticipated time when funds might run out.
When the retirement fund runs out, only 77% of the monthly payments that millions of Americans depend on can be covered. Lucey mentioned that this pattern stems from several contributing elements.
"This has largely been due to baby boomers retiring, longer life expectancies, and a reduced birth rate in our nation — which means fewer workers are adding to that trust fund," Lucey explained.
Less than ten years remain to tackle this problem, prompting U.S. legislators to consider various possible remedies. Among these options are increasing tax rates, reducing benefits, or modifying qualification criteria.
The initial move should involve adjusting the Social Security eligibility ages," stated Lucey. "Currently, the earliest one can claim Social Security benefits is at 62; this might be extended to 65 instead. Additionally, the present full retirement age of 67 could potentially shift to 70. Considering the rise in average life expectancy within our nation, I believe these adjustments could serve as viable objectives.
He additionally proposed raising the ceiling for Social Security taxable earnings.
It presently stands at $176,000," he stated. "Increasing this amount would shift greater financial responsibility onto those with higher incomes to support the Social Security trust fund.
Should Congress take no action, benefits might decrease by at least 20%. Nonetheless, Lucey believes this outcome is improbable.
Now more than ever is the time to begin considering your financial situation — regardless of age, he recommended.
"Stay attuned to shifts in the economy, updates in the tax code, and governmental policies, while simultaneously making sure you're setting aside funds for retirement throughout your career," he advised.
Lucy emphasized that this updated forecast intensifies the urgency for legislators to take action before the circumstances deteriorate further.
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