The future of Social Security is once again under the microscope, and this time the conversation is hitting close to home for millions of Americans. Social Security Administration (SSA) commissioner Frank Bisignano, who was appointed by Donald Trump earlier this year, isn’t ruling out the idea of raising the retirement age as one of several possible solutions to the program’s looming solvency issues.
During an appearance on Fox Business’ Mornings with Maria, Bisignano was pressed on whether increasing the retirement age is on the table. His response? “Everything’s being considered.”
That statement raised eyebrows, sparking concern about whether future retirees will be forced to work longer before collecting full benefits.
A spokesperson later told Newsweek that while nothing has been decided, officials are reviewing a wide range of options to keep the program stable. The spokesperson stressed that the conversation is about long-term solvency and modernizing the SSA to make it more efficient for the public, not immediate cuts.
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Why It Matters
The Social Security Trustees’ latest report shows that the program’s trust funds could run short by 2034 if no action is taken. That means future retirees might see reduced benefits unless major changes are made. Raising the retirement age is just one of several ideas often floated by policymakers, along with raising payroll taxes or restructuring benefits.
While no official plan has been announced, the fact that Trump’s SSA chief didn’t rule out the option signals that nothing is off-limits in the debate over Social Security’s future.
