Celebrating nine decades of Social Security benefits while debunking common misconceptions
If Social Security were a person, we’d be throwing quite the birthday bash this year. At 90 years old, it’s one of America’s longest running and most successful government programs, touching nearly every American family since 1935. And it’s not a handout—it’s an earned benefit, funded by the FICA taxes we all pay.
So, let’s raise a glass. Here’s to the steady checks, never once missed, that keep nearly 69 million Americans afloat today. Here’s to widows and veterans. To parents and children. To retirees who’ve counted on Social Security benefits in both good times and hard. Here’s to a program that has kept generations of Americans out of poverty and helped us age with a little more dignity.
That’s worth celebrating.
Social Security Myths: Time for a Reality Check
Birthdays aren’t just about cake and candles—they’re also a time for reflection. And when it comes to Social Security, there are a few persistent myths floating around that could use some busting.
Myth #1: “Social Security won’t be there when I retire”
This is probably the most common fear about Social Security’s future, and while the program does face long-term funding challenges, it’s not going away. Even if Congress took no action, Social Security would still be able to pay about 75-80% of benefits for decades to come, according to the Social Security Administration. Yes, adjustments will be needed to ensure full Social Security funding. But the idea of Social Security “disappearing” is a myth that doesn’t reflect the program’s actual financial projections. So, talk with your kids and grandkids about Social Security reform. Their voices will help ensure it’s there for them too.
Myth #2: “Social Security is just for retirees
Not true. While most people think of Social Security as a retirement check, nearly one-third of beneficiaries are not retirees. They are disabled workers receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), widows and widowers collecting survivors’ benefits, or children who have lost a parent. It’s a comprehensive social insurance program designed to provide financial security beyond just the golden years. Since 1935, the program has expanded far beyond retirement—adding survivors’ benefits, disability insurance, Medicare, and automatic cost-of-living increases (COLA) to protect against inflation.
Myth #3: “Members of Congress don’t pay into Social Security”
I once believed this Social Security myth myself. But the truth is…yes, members of Congress have paid Social Security taxes since 1984. Some have mistakenly argued that their lack of participation is what prevents legislative solutions. But now that you know Congress members do participate in Social Security, you have one more reason to contact your congressional representatives reminding them that it’s their program too. Every voice counts—Social Security’s future depends on those who speak up to protect it.
The Future of Social Security: Why your voice matters
As an AARP Volunteer Advocate, I’ve seen firsthand how deeply people rely on Social Security benefits. And honestly, it’s a significant piece of my own retirement income plan. For some Americans, Social Security is the difference between getting by and going without. For others, it’s peace of mind—a steady financial anchor in uncertain economic times.
A recent Bipartisan Policy Center poll found that 93% of Americans consider Social Security a valuable federal program, with remarkable consensus across the political spectrum. That kind of unity is rare—and it shows just how deeply this retirement and disability program matters to people from all walks of life.
Social Security at 90: Gratitude and action
At 90 years old, Social Security deserves both our gratitude and our attention. Gratitude for the millions of lives it has supported through retirement benefits, disability insurance, and survivors’ benefits. And attention, because the policy choices we make now will determine how strong Social Security remains for our children and grandchildren.
Like any milestone birthday, this 90th anniversary is a moment to look back at Social Security’s history and look forward to its future. The question isn’t whether Social Security matters—it’s how we’ll ensure it remains financially strong for the next generation of American workers and retirees.
So happy birthday, Social Security. Here’s to many more candles on the cake—and continued advocacy to protect this essential earned benefit program.
Social Security fun facts: 90 years strong
- First Social Security check issued: $22.54 in 1940 to Ida May Fuller, a retired schoolteacher.
- Social Security beneficiaries today: Nearly 69 million Americans receive benefits.
- Average monthly Social Security retirement benefit in 2025: About $2,000.
- Social Security’s broad reach: Nearly one in five Americans receives Social Security benefits.
- Longest-lived Social Security recipient: Collected benefits for more than 47 years.
- Stay informed and find the latest Social Security news and FAQ here.
Take action to protect Social Security
Want to help strengthen Social Security for future generations? Learn more about Social Security advocacy and sign the AARP Pledge to join the growing movement fighting to protect this essential program.
