(From Mike Moen, Minnesota News Connection, Northern Plains News)
A growing number of Americans rely substantially on Social Security payments, according to a recurring survey led by a key senior advocacy group, with fresh insights from Minnesotans as well.
Every five years, AARP asks the public how it feels about the nation’s retirement and disability safety net. The new survey issued this week found 65% of respondents called it a key source of their monthly income, a slight gain from the 2020 poll and well above the 2005 result.
Cathy McLeer, state director for AARP Minnesota, said the numbers speak volumes.
“So many people rely on those monthly payments to keep food on the table, to pay for health care,” McLeer pointed out. “In fact, those payments inject about $24.3 billion into Minnesota’s economy every year.”
McLeer argued Social Security needs to stay strong for current and future beneficiaries. Due to financial pressure, analysts said the program could be forced to reduce monthly payments as early as 2034, if Congressional action is not taken. Long-standing political differences have stood in the way of solutions.
The survey showed 43% of Minnesotans 65 and older rely on Social Security for at least half their income.
The 2025 poll found declining confidence among Americans about the future of Social Security, especially among younger adults. McLeer noted misinformation appears to be a contributing factor.
“Thirty-six percent of respondents falsely believe that Social Security will be unable to make any payments,” McLeer reported.
She added AARP recognizes the pending shortfalls and the potential for smaller payments but stressed Social Security is not going broke. The new survey comes ahead of the program’s 90th anniversary next month. AARP will hold outreach events in Minnesota over the next few weeks to honor the milestone and educate all ages about the program and the role it should play in one’s retirement.
