The Value of Social Security Benefits Is Declining. Here’s How to Supplement With More Guaranteed Income

Core Insights - Social Security benefits are a crucial income source for retirees, replacing approximately 40% of pre-retirement earnings, but their value is declining significantly [1][2] - The average monthly Social Security payment in 2024 is only worth $0.80 on the dollar compared to 2010, indicating a 20% decline in purchasing power [5] - The Cost of Living Adjustments (COLAs) are not sufficient to maintain the buying power of benefits due to flaws in the calculation method, which does not accurately reflect retirees' spending habits [6][7] Group 1 - The decline in the buying power of Social Security benefits is more substantial than expected, with a significant drop noted despite the existence of COLAs [4][5] - To maintain the same purchasing power as in 2010, benefits would need to increase by $4,442 per year [5] - The COLA formula is based on the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W), which underrepresents healthcare and housing costs relevant to seniors [6][7] Group 2 - Retirees will receive a 2.8% raise in 2026, but this will not compensate for the previous losses in buying power [6] - There is a growing need for retirees to seek additional guaranteed income sources, such as annuities with inflation protection, to supplement the declining value of Social Security [3][7] - Many Americans are reassessing their retirement plans in light of these changes, realizing they may be able to retire earlier than previously thought [7]