Social Security Celebrates 90th Birthday

"Ninety years ago today, the Social Security Act was signed into law, marking a watershed moment for our country by providing American workers with a foundation for their financial security and dignity in retirement," said AARP CEO Myechia Minter-Jordan on August 14.

Today more than 69 million Americans receive Social Security, with the number expected to increase to 82 million people by the time Social Security turns 100.

Social Security helps tens of millions of Americans stay out of poverty and retire with dignity after a lifetime of hard work. For more than 40% of older Americans, Social Security is their primary source of income.

A new AARP survey shows that 67% of Americans view Social Security as more important to retirees today than five years ago. At the same time, Americans increasingly say they're concerned about its future. Confidence in the future of Social Security has declined by 7% in the last five years, from 43% in 2020 to 36% in 2025.

"On August 14, 1935, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed into law the Social Security Act - a monumental legislative achievement that protects our seniors, uplifts our citizens and sustains the livelihoods of hardworking Americans who devoted their professions to bettering our country," said President Donald J. Trump in a proclamation.

"On the 90th anniversary of the establishment of this historic program, I recommit to always defending Social Security, rewarding the men and women who make our country prosperous, and taking care of our own workers, families, seniors and citizens first," he added.