Millions see bigger checks this month as the Social Security Fairness Act takes effect. Here’s who qualifies and how payments are changing

Per the Schroders 2024 U.S. Retirement Survey, 43% of pre-retirees plan to start Social Security before age 67, and only 10% plan to wait until 70.

Social Security is an important source of income for a large number of retirees today. And without those benefits, many would no doubt struggle to stay afloat. But Social Security is facing some serious financial troubles that could leave the program short on critical income.