Young people might think Social Security’s annual Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) is only relevant to retirees. However, it has long-term implications for everyone.
The COLA is designed to help benefits keep pace with inflation, ensuring that retirees, disabled individuals, and other recipients can maintain their standard of living as costs rise. However, when the COLA falls short, like the 2.5 percent increase for 2025, it weakens the system and puts future beneficiaries, including today’s young workers, at risk.
If Social Security benefits don’t keep up with real living costs, the burden on future generations will grow. As today’s workforce ages, they may also face inadequate benefits unless the system is strengthened. A COLA that reflects true inflation is essential for maintaining Social Security’s sustainability and fairness.
Young people should be paying attention now because the policies we advocate for today will shape the benefits available to us when we retire.
Are you a young person? What do you think about the 2025 COLA? Share your thoughts with us. If you’d like to secure your retirement future, sign our petition.