Dave Ramsey: Almost 50% of Americans are making 1 massive Social Security blunder. How to fix it in 2026

Core Insights - Concerns about the future of Social Security payments are rising, with 59% of non-retired Americans worried about its availability upon retirement [1] - Social Security benefits are designed to replace only 40% of pre-retirement income, with the average monthly benefit estimated at $2,008, translating to an annual income of just over $24,000, which is insufficient for a comfortable retirement [2] - A significant portion of Americans, nearly 50%, are making a major mistake regarding Social Security, indicating a lack of awareness or planning for retirement [4] Retirement Savings Trends - Only 1 in 10 Americans save 15% or more of their income for retirement, which is the recommended amount by industry experts [4] - A study indicates that 42% of Americans are not currently saving for the future, and only 54.4% of families have retirement accounts [4][12] - The average retirement account balance is $148,153, while the median balance is just $38,176, far below the estimated $1.26 million needed for a comfortable retirement [12][13] Recommended Savings Strategies - Establish a saving benchmark of at least 15% of gross income to secure a comfortable retirement, as the current personal savings rate is only 4% [7] - Maximize contributions to tax-advantaged accounts like 401(k)s and Roth IRAs to mitigate tax liabilities and enhance savings potential [11][12] - Consider investing in gold through a self-directed gold IRA for protection against market shifts while enjoying tax advantages [14][15] Alternative Income Sources - To enhance retirement income, individuals are encouraged to explore passive income sources such as rental properties, with platforms like Mogul offering fractional ownership opportunities [17][18] - Arrived allows investments in rental homes with as little as $100, providing a way to earn rental income without the burdens of property management [20][21] - Regularly renegotiating salaries or seeking lateral career changes can also improve financial situations and boost retirement prospects [22]