Social Security’s Legacy—and Its Future

For nine decades, Social Security has been a stable and reliable foundation of retirement security for millions of Americans—and we believe it must remain that way for generations to come.

A Legacy of Security

Since 1935, Social Security has helped older Americans live and retire with dignity, supported people with disabilities, and provided vital income to families after the loss of a loved one. It’s a promise earned through a lifetime of hard work—and it has stood the test of time, weathering economic downturns, political shifts, and demographic change. In its 90 years of existence, a payment has never been missed.

Today, more than 67 million Americans receive Social Security, more than 1.6 million in Virginia. For many, it’s the bedrock of their retirement. And as we approach this milestone anniversary, one thing is clear: we must continue to protect and strengthen Social Security.

On 90th Anniversary, Survey Finds Social Security Viewed as More Important than Ever

Social Security for Widows and Widowers (webinar recording): Questions answered about eligibility, how to apply and the impact of remarriage on benefits.

90 Years of Social Security (webinar recording): Explore the history of the program in commemoration of Social Security's 90th anniversary. We will also discuss AARP's significant advocacy role in protecting and defending Social Security.

🚂August 23 — Grandparents Day at the Virginia Museum of Transportation: Play Social Security Plinko for prizes (while supplies last). Free ice cream and more. Grandparents are admitted free if visiting with a grandchild; regular admission fee for all other guests.

💻 Sept. 4 — How Civic Efforts Can Affect Policy (webinar): Don't miss this opportunity to delve into how civic participation can influence policies like Social Security, and why it’s essential to advocate for actions that shape the program’s future.

💻 Sept. 9 — Understand Your Social Security Options (webinar): This workshop focuses on building a basic understanding of Social Security, exploring how claiming decisions affect payments and identifying resources that can assist you along the way. It can help you build confidence in making the right decisions for your personal situation.




A System Under Pressure

Despite its long track record of stability, Social Security is facing challenges, particularly when it comes to how the Social Security Administration (SSA) serves the public.

Over the past few months, we’ve seen concerning and confusing developments:

• Reduced workforce: The SSA announced plans to reduce its workforce by 12%, causing concerns about customer service at a time when demand is growing. SSA has not rescinded its plan to downsize but will monitor its impact on service delivery.
• Limiting access to phone service: Proposed changes to service available by phone  sparked widespread confusion and would have made it harder—especially for older adults and rural residents—to access their payments and information. The SSA rescinded this proposed change.
• Overpayment clawbacks: People who received incorrect Social Security payments would have 100 percent of their current payments withheld – even if the overpayment was due to agency errors – creating financial strain and uncertainty for too many. This amount has since been reduced to 50 percent.

AARP is Fighting to Protect and Strengthen Social Security

For more than 65 years, AARP has worked with every administration and Congress to protect and strengthen Social Security. Now, AARP is leading the charge to defend our Social Security from harmful changes, and to ensure it remains strong for your children and grandchildren. AARP is leading the charge through these efforts:

• Stopped bad policy: We mobilized members and stopped the SSA from implementing burdensome changes that would have made it more difficult for Americans to access information and payments.
• Demanded accountability: We’ve called out delays, excessive call wait times, and staffing shortages, demanding that the SSA prioritize service and accessibility.
• Mobilized millions: Thanks to the voices of our members, over 3 million messages have been sent to members of Congress urging them to protect and strengthen Social Security.

Join Us: 90 Years, One Mission
AARP state offices across the country celebrated Social Security’s 90th anniversary in August.

Check out how we celebrated in Virginia:

Celebrating 90 years of Social Security amid concerns for its future

AARP Virginia Joins National Night Out to Advocate for Social Security

Social Security Turns 90: Virginia Beach Residents Reflect on the Program’s Impact

Social Security is your money—you earned it. And AARP will never stop fighting to make sure it’s there when you need it.

Let’s honor 90 years of stability—and work together to ensure Social Security stays strong for the next 90.