President Trump's tariff and trade policy is expected to boost Social Security's 2026 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA).

In May, the average monthly retired-worker benefit crested $2,000 for the first time in Social Security's storied history. While this is a relatively modest monthly sum, it's proven vital to helping retirees cover their expenses.

For nearly a quarter of a century, national pollster Gallup has surveyed retirees to determine how important Social Security income is to their financial well-being. Based on their responses, between 80% and 90% of retirees rely on this leading social program to make ends meet.

With nearly 70 million people in July receiving a traditional Social Security benefit, including more than 53 million retired workers, it should come as no surprise t

See Full Page