AARP Celebrates 90 Years of Social Security, Looks Ahead to Another 90

AARP CEO Myechia Minter-Jordan today issued the following statement to commemorate the 90^th anniversary of Social Security:

“Ninety years ago today, the Social Security Act was signed into law, marking a watershed moment for our country by providing American workers with a foundation for their financial security and dignity in retirement.

Today more than 69 million Americans receive Social Security, with the number expected to increase to 82 million people by the time Social Security turns 100.

 Social Security helps tens of millions of Americans stay out of poverty and retire with dignity after a lifetime of hard work. For more than 40% of older Americans, Social Security is their primary source of income. And for many people, Social Security is the only inflation-protected income they have in retirement.

 A new AARP survey shows that 67% of Americans view Social Security as more important to retirees today than five years ago. At the same time, Americans increasingly say they’re concerned about its future. Confidence in the future of Social Security has declined by 7% in the last five years, from 43% in 2020 to 36% in 2025.

As we look ahead to the next 90 years of Social Security, it’s critical that it remains strong for generations to come.

At nearly 300 anniversary events in every U.S. state and territory this past month, AARP members are showing up to celebrate the program and urge Social Security to keep its promise today and in the future. On Social Security’s 90th birthday, we commit to our members, and all older Americans, that AARP will keep fighting to keep it strong for the decades to come.”