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Join AARP for just $15 for your first year when you sign up for automatic renewal. Gain instant access to exclusive products, hundreds of discounts and services, a free second membership, and a subscription to AARP The Magazine.

Social Security Turns 90

En español | The program that transformed aging in America reaches a milestone this year. Explore how it started, where it's headed, and why fighting for it is as important as ever.

Fighting for Social Security

5 Ways AARP Is Fighting for Social Security

AARP is tracking new SSA initiatives and taking action when needed

Social Security Drops Proposed Phone Restrictions

ID-proofing rule would have sent millions to SSA offices for routine tasks

Don’t Privatize Social Security, AARP Says

We condemn a U.S. official’s comment on a “back door” way to privatization

Americans Rely on These Sacred Promises

Urgent action is needed to protect Social Security and Medicare

Social Security News & History

Social Security Equals Independence for This Retiree

Financial stability and independent living found at 87

Nine Digits That Changed America’s Identity

How the Social Security number became the bulwark of our financial lives

How Social Security Safeguards Older Women

As the nation’s workforce became more diverse, the program evolved

How Social Security and Medicare Changed Aging

Historic programs transformed the financial and health care landscape

Key Moments in the History of Social Security

Popular program marks 89th anniversary in 2024

These 7 Americans Depend on Social Security

Caregiving, health emergencies, business woes derailed their plans

The New Tax Deduction for Older Adults

Who qualifies? How much is it? We answer key questions.

Social Security Trust Fund Shortfall Could Arrive in 2034

Benefits would be reduced unless Congress acts

Benefits Recommended For You

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Join AARP for just $15 for your first year when you sign up for automatic renewal. Gain instant access to exclusive products, hundreds of discounts and services, a free second membership, and a subscription to AARP The Magazine.

Social Security Videos

AARP’s Key Fights for Social Security

AARP Fights for Social Security

Bill Sweeney, AARP senior vice president, describes key moments when AARP stood up to strengthen Social Security.

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This Family’s Future is Protected

After 45 years working, Phyllis Bermudez depends on her Social Security payments and hopes her daughter can, too

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AARP CEO Marks 60th Anniversary of Medicare

AARP CEO Marks Medicare's 60th

Dr. Myechia Minter-Jordan shares how AARP helped to create Medicare and why the fight to protect it continues today.

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Grandma Relies on Social Security

Dr. Myechia Minter-Jordan visits Marylyn Jones to discuss Social Security’s effect on her life, AARP’s efforts to keep up benefits.

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AARP CEO on Social Security’s 90-Year Legacy

Social Security’s 90-Year Legacy

Social Security nears its anniversary, Dr. Myechia Minter-Jordan reflects on the need to protect it for future generations.

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My Lifeline to Provide Caregiving

Social Security allows Suzanne Leedy to be a full-time caregiver to her wife, Susie, who lives with multiple sclerosis and dementia.

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Two Ways Social Security Customer Service is Changing

Retired Social Security Administrator Stephen Richardson highlights two changes to Social Security customer service and how they can affect you.

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Inside AARP’s Fight for Social Security

Inside AARP’s Fight for Social Security

Walk with senior vice president of government affairs Bill Sweeney as he brings AARP members’ concerns about retirement security straight to Congress.

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In Their Own Words: Americans Depend on Social Security

In Their Own Words: Americans Depend on Social Security

People across the U.S. share stories of Social Security’s impact: 90 years of vital support, fighting poverty and ensuring dignity in retirement.

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Find AARP offices in your State and News, Events and Programs affecting retirement, health care and more.

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Understanding Social Security Retirement

Essentials of Social Security Retirement Benefits

Learn how your decisions can affect your finances for the rest of your life

Have You Earned Eligibility for Social Security?

Work, taxes and age all factor into whether you qualify

When to Apply for Social Security Is Personal

Consider your answers to 5 questions from health to money

Early Retirees Must Fill a Health Insurance Gap

Medicare coverage for most older Americans won’t begin until age 65

Having a Job and Social Security May Cost You

It all depends on whether you have reached your full retirement age

Some Must Pay Income Taxes on Social Security

If you must pay, rate will be the same as on your work income

Spouses, Ex-Spouses Can Be Eligible for Benefits

When you apply is a key factor in how much you’ll receive

Tools & Resources

90 Years of Social Security

Join AARP events as we honor Social Security’s legacy and share stories

Social Security Calculator

Get an estimate and discover ways to maximize your monthly payments

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Free On-Demand Webinars

Watch on your schedule. Learn how to avoid costly Social Security mistakes

Social Security for Dummies, 5th Edition book cover

Social Security For Dummies

Get expert advice for ensuring you're receiving your maximum benefits

Social Security Advice

A senior couple going over their home finances seated at the kitchen table.

Social Security Filing Strategies for Couples

Maximizing spouses’ benefits comes down to patience, planning and math

Social Security ID card torn in two

Social Security Tips for Divorced People

The end of a marriage doesn’t always end eligibility for family benefits

Tips to Navigate Social Security Claims

These steps may cut wait times, improve odds of success

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Key Facts About Social Security Survivor Benefits

What Social Security can do for you in wake of loss