In 2024, Social Security recipients will see a modest 3.2% increase in their benefits, a decline from last year’s record 8.7% bump. While this smaller increase may offer some relief, many beneficiaries are concerned about how it will cover rising expenses.
The New Numbers
Starting next year, 71 million Americans receiving Social Security will get an extra $59 a month, bringing the average monthly payout to $1,907.
Last Year’s Record Increase
Last year saw a whopping 8.7% increase, the largest since 1981, which added an extra $140 to monthly payments.
Basis for the Increase
The Social Security Administration adjusts payments annually based on inflation. On average, benefits have risen by 2.6% each year for the past two decades.
Who Benefits?
Retirees and their dependents constitute three-quarters of Social Security recipients. Disabled workers and low-income individuals also benefit from the program.
A Critical Lifeline
For many lower and middle-income retirees without workplace retirement plans like a 401(k), Social Security serves as a crucial financial lifeline.
Disappointment After a Bumper Year
This year’s modest increase is disappointing for many recipients, especially after last year’s substantial bump.
Rising Medical Costs
Annual bonuses often get offset by rising Medicare Part B premiums, which are automatically deducted from Social Security checks.
These premiums are expected to rise by around $10 in 2024.
The Inflation Factor
The current year’s inflation rate influences the next year’s increase, making it challenging for beneficiaries who have already endured high prices.
A Basket Not Fit for All
Cost-of-living adjustments are based on an average basket of goods for employed individuals, not retirees, who often have different spending patterns.
Calls for Change
Advocates suggest switching to a Consumer Price Index for the Elderly (CPI-E) to better reflect retirees’ expenses.
Keeping Afloat, Barely
Social Security’s cost-of-living adjustment is not a benefit increase but rather a measure to help seniors maintain their standard of living.
Last-Minute Data
September’s inflation figures, which remained steady at 3.7%, will be the last considered before the Federal Reserve’s next meeting, influencing its policy decisions.
Specific Expenses
Rising costs for essentials like gas, car insurance, and healthcare make even modest increases in Social Security critical for recipients.
Looking Forward
As beneficiaries anticipate this modest increase, they remain concerned about how it will cover their living expenses, particularly in healthcare and housing.
The Bigger Picture
While the 3.2% hike offers some relief, it emphasizes the need for a more comprehensive look at how Social Security can adequately serve an aging population facing a wide array of increasing expenses.
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Mark Garro is an Aussie former CPA and corporate finance manager turned research writer. After more than two decades simplifying complex analyses for leading companies, including Goldman Sachs, Marks & Spencer, and Tabcorp, he packed up and moved to the Italian Riviera. Now he covers all things related to finance and equity research for a diverse range of publishers and syndicators around the world.
