Social Security is back in the spotlight, with growing discussions about how to make the program more equitable for groups often left at a disadvantage.
A recent AARP-funded study by the National Academy of Social Insurance (NASI) found that a bipartisan majority of Americans favor expanding benefits for two specific groups: parents who take time off to care for children and older workers with physically demanding jobs.
In a time when politics is highly polarized, the survey shows a surprising level of unity across party lines, with both Democrats and Republicans supporting these changes. Let’s look into what these proposed adjustments are and why they matter.
Two Proposed Changes
The proposed adjustments to Social Security aim to address long-standing gaps that have left many Americans vulnerable. Here are the two primary changes:
Caregiving Credit for Parents
Parents who step away from work to care for their children often receive lower Social Security benefits because their time out of the workforce results in fewer contributions to the system.
The caregiving credit would help reduce this penalty by providing parents with income credits during caregiving periods. This would ensure they don’t face a significant disadvantage when it’s time to claim Social Security benefits.
Bridge Benefit for Older Workers
Many Americans with physically demanding jobs—such as construction workers, factory employees, and laborers—are forced to retire early due to physical wear and tear. However, retiring early can significantly reduce the monthly benefits they receive.
The bridge benefit would provide financial support for these workers until they reach full retirement age, allowing them to bridge the gap without losing future Social Security income.
Widespread Support
According to the NASI survey, Americans strongly support these proposed adjustments:
- Caregiving Credit: Nearly 60% of participants back this idea.
- Bridge Benefit: Over 60% believe this would be a fair and necessary addition.
In a statement, Debra Whitman, AARP’s chief public policy officer, highlighted the rare bipartisan support:
“It is rare in today’s political climate to see people unite around anything, but 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.”
Changes
Social Security benefits are calculated based on how much an individual contributes over their working life. This system unintentionally disadvantages certain groups.
Caregivers
Many women and parents take time off work to care for children, leaving gaps in their employment history. This results in lower lifetime contributions and smaller Social Security checks later in life, despite the vital role they play in raising the next generation.
Physically Demanding Jobs
For workers in physically strenuous professions, retiring early is often a necessity due to chronic injuries or physical limitations. Unfortunately, retiring before full retirement age results in permanently reduced benefits, even though these individuals may have worked hard their entire lives.
The Path Forward
As discussions around Social Security reform continue, it’s clear that there’s strong public support for these changes. While no official policy has been implemented yet, the results of the NASI survey highlight a growing demand for more inclusive and fair benefits.
The question now is whether lawmakers will act on this bipartisan momentum to ensure that Social Security provides adequate support for caregivers and physically exhausted workers. If they do, it could represent a meaningful step toward a more equitable system.
FAQs
What is the caregiving credit?
A credit that helps parents who take time off from work avoid reduced benefits.
What is the bridge benefit?
It offers temporary support to older workers in physically demanding jobs.
Why are caregivers at a disadvantage?
They contribute less to Social Security while caring for children, lowering future benefits.
Who supports these changes?
A bipartisan majority of Americans from both political parties.
When will these changes take effect?
They are proposals, and it’s unclear when or if they’ll be implemented.
