Millions of Americans rely on Social Security to make ends meet during retirement. But as inflation climbs, healthcare becomes more expensive, and rent continues to rise, those monthly benefits just aren’t stretching far enough. That’s why the proposed Social Security 2100 Act is getting so much attention—it could increase benefits by as much as $2,600 per year for some retirees and shore up the system for future generations.
In this guide, we’ll break down what the Social Security 2100 Act is, how it could impact your retirement income, and what steps you can take now to prepare.
Overview
Here’s a quick snapshot of the proposed legislation and its potential benefits:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Act Name | Social Security 2100: A Sacred Trust |
| Introduced by | Rep. John Larson (D-CT) |
| Main Benefit | Up to $2,600/year increase for qualifying recipients |
| Other Changes | COLA reform, tax updates, better minimum benefits |
| Target Groups | Retirees, widows, low-income earners, disabled individuals |
| Official Resource | Social Security Administration (SSA.gov) |
This legislation is more than a patch—it’s a full-scale update to a program that hasn’t seen major changes in decades.
What
The Social Security 2100 Act, also known as “A Sacred Trust,” is a proposed law that aims to improve monthly benefits, modernize inflation adjustments, and ensure long-term funding for the Social Security program. With the current trust fund projected to run out by 2034, reform is essential to avoid cuts of up to 20% in future benefits.
The bill’s focus is twofold: boost payments now and make the system financially sustainable.
How
So how exactly could this bill put more money in your pocket? Let’s break it down:
1. 2% Across-the-Board Benefit Increase
Every Social Security recipient would get a 2% boost. If you’re getting $1,200 per month, that’s an extra $24 monthly—or $288 per year.
2. Better COLA Calculations
The bill proposes replacing the CPI-W with the CPI-E to better reflect the spending habits of seniors—think healthcare, housing, and prescriptions. Over time, this could mean higher annual increases.
3. Minimum Benefit Expansion
The minimum benefit would rise to 125% of the federal poverty level, or around $1,518/month. That’s a huge help for those who worked lower-paying jobs for decades.
4. Long-Term Recipients
Enhanced survivor benefits and special increases for those on Social Security for 20+ years would help cushion aging seniors from the effects of inflation.
Combined Effect
If you’re part of a vulnerable group—low-income retiree, longtime recipient, or widow—the combined effect of all these changes could be up to $2,600 per year.
Why
There’s urgency behind this bill. Social Security hasn’t been meaningfully updated in decades, even as:
- People live longer (into their 80s and 90s)
- Healthcare costs soar
- Pensions become rare
The 2025 Trustees Report warns that without changes, Social Security will only be able to pay 80% of scheduled benefits by 2034. For 70+ million people, that’s a major financial hit.
Features
The Social Security 2100 Act proposes several major changes:
| Category | Change |
|---|---|
| Monthly Benefits | 2% across-the-board increase |
| Minimum Benefit | Raised to 125% of poverty level |
| COLA Adjustment | Switch to CPI-E for more accurate inflation indexing |
| Tax Threshold | New payroll tax for income above $400,000 |
| Trust Fund Solvency | Extended to at least 2038 |
| Survivor Benefits | Improved protections for widows and long-term retirees |
| Disability Rules | Better support for SSDI recipients |
Who
This bill would be especially beneficial for:
- Retirees who rely solely or mostly on Social Security
- Women and minorities disproportionately in low-wage work
- Individuals with disabilities
- Widows and widowers with limited household income
- Long-term recipients impacted by inflation erosion
Mary’s Story
Mary is 72 and spent her life as a home health aide. She currently gets $900/month. Under this bill:
- A 2% raise gives her $18/month
- COLA updates could add $200–$300 annually
- Minimum benefit boost could bring her closer to $1,518/month
That kind of change can be life-altering for retirees like Mary.
What You Can Do Now
Even though the bill is not law yet, here’s how you can prepare:
1. Check Your SSA Account
Log in to ssa.gov and review your earnings history. Mistakes in your record can lower your future payments.
2. Use Online Calculators
Try the SSA’s retirement estimator to see how different claiming ages and income levels affect your benefits.
3. Stay Informed
Follow updates on Congress.gov or the SSA newsroom. Public support can help move legislation forward.
4. Talk to a Financial Planner
Ask how changes to Social Security could affect your retirement income strategy. A few adjustments now could boost your security later.
FAQs
What is the Social Security 2100 Act?
A proposed law to increase benefits and strengthen Social Security.
How much more could I get under this bill?
Some may receive up to $2,600 more per year.
Will taxes increase for most people?
No, only income above $400,000 will face new taxes.
When will the bill become law?
It’s still under review and has not passed yet.
How can I track the status of the bill?
Visit Congress.gov or the SSA website for updates.
