This year marks the 90th year of Social Security — one of the most important programs ever created to ensure the well-being of American retirees. As we reflect on its history, it’s clear that Social Security remains vital for millions of seniors today. But without proper stewardship, its future is at risk.
In 1935, during the Great Depression, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the Social Security Act into law. The goal was simple but critical: to provide a safety net for older Americans who had worked hard all their lives but faced poverty in retirement. Funded through payroll taxes, Social Security became the foundation of financial security for retirees, the disabled, and surviving family members.
Why Social Security Still Matters for Seniors
For many seniors, Social Security is more than just a monthly check — it’s the difference between enjoying a comfortable retirement or one spent struggling to make ends meet. It allows retirees to cover essential expenses like housing, food, and healthcare, offering dignity and stability during their later years. Without it, millions would face severe economic hardship.
Unfortunately, decades of poor policy decisions have undermined the program’s stability. The original “Trust Fund” model — meant to safeguard retirement savings — has been replaced with a system that uses surplus funds for unrelated spending. Additionally, the tax cap on high earners limits the program’s revenue potential. These issues have left Social Security vulnerable and in urgent need of reform.
We believe Social Security must be protected for today’s retirees and future generations. That’s why we’re calling on policymakers to restore the Trust Fund model and ensure every dollar collected goes to retirement benefits.
If you support our mission to protect this program, help us out today. Sign our Social Security Lock-Box Petition. With our collective voice, we can protect retirement for today’s seniors and for future generations.
