Americans Support Increasing Social Security Benefits for Two Groups – Is It Likely to Happen?

Social Security has long been a hot topic in American politics, but a new study funded by AARP and conducted by the National Academy of Social Insurance (NASI) shows rare bipartisan agreement. The study found that most Americans support expanding Social Security benefits for two specific groups—caregivers and older workers in physically demanding jobs.

These proposed changes could make a huge difference for those who often face financial struggles in retirement. But what exactly are these new benefits, and why do they matter? Let’s take a closer look.

Caregiving Credit

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One of the biggest proposed changes is a caregiving credit. Many parents, especially mothers, take time off work to raise their children. Since Social Security benefits are based on lifetime earnings, these career gaps lead to lower benefits in retirement.

A caregiving credit would help by ensuring that those who took time off to care for children or other family members do not suffer financially later in life. Instead of seeing their benefits shrink due to lost income, caregivers would receive a credit that compensates for their unpaid work.

According to the NASI study, nearly 60% of Americans support this change. This includes support from both Republican and Democrat voters, making it a rare issue that unites people across political lines.

Bridge Benefit

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The second proposed change is a “bridge benefit” for older workers who have spent years in physically demanding jobs. Many workers in industries such as construction, manufacturing, and healthcare develop health issues that make it difficult to continue working into their late 60s.

Currently, if these workers retire early due to physical limitations, their Social Security benefits are permanently reduced. The bridge benefit would provide extra financial support to help them transition to full Social Security benefits without severe penalties.

Over 60% of Americans back this proposal, showing strong public support for helping workers who have physically demanding careers.

Why These Changes Matter

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Social Security is designed to provide financial security in retirement, but the current system often leaves certain groups at a disadvantage. Parents who take time off work and laborers who retire early due to physical strain both end up with lower benefits. These changes aim to fix that problem by recognizing that caregiving and physically demanding work have long-term financial consequences.

With Americans living longer and the cost of living rising, these adjustments could help ensure a more stable retirement for millions. The fact that both Republicans and Democrats support these changes also increases the chances of policy action in the future.

What’s Next?

While public support for these changes is strong, the next step is turning this momentum into actual legislation. Lawmakers will need to consider how to fund these benefits without putting additional strain on the Social Security system, which has already faced concerns about long-term solvency.

Potential funding solutions could include adjustments to payroll taxes or other reforms to ensure Social Security remains financially sustainable. Whatever the approach, the widespread support for these changes shows that Americans want a fairer system for retirees.

AARP’s chief public policy officer, Debra Whitman, summed it up best: “Virtually all Americans want their Social Security benefits to be preserved and are willing to do what it takes to ensure the program continues to provide meaningful support for future generations.”

This rare bipartisan consensus on Social Security could be a sign of progress in a divided political landscape. If these changes move forward, they could provide much-needed relief for caregivers and workers who have dedicated their lives to physically demanding jobs.

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