Living off Social Security alone will likely only get more challenging over time. You'll probably get annual cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs) in most years, but these often don't keep pace with inflation. So, every year your checks buy a little less.

Social Security has been the foundation of retirement income for millions of Americans, but as 2025 unfolds, retirees face growing concerns about its future. Rising costs, potential benefit adjustments and policy changes are all shaping the conversation.

When you’ve worked for many years, it’s unsurprising that retirement feels like the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. However, those planning to retire at age 65 may need to reevaluate their current plan as Social Security is raising the retirement age this year.