This year marks a powerful milestone: 90 years of Social Security. Since President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed it into law on Aug. 14, 1935, Social Security has been a cornerstone of economic security, ensuring Washingtonians can retire with dignity, supporting people with disabilities, and providing vital income after the loss of a loved one.

Over the past nine decades, not a single payment has been missed. That’s not just reliability – it’s a testament to the strength and success of one of America’s most trusted institutions. We’ve all paid into it. We all depend on it. And we must all fight to protect it.

Washington numbers

Today, more than 1.4 million Washingtonians rely on Social Security. For many, it’s the difference between stability and hardship. It is used to cover rent, groceries, prescriptions and basic needs. Without it, nearly 314,000 residents would fall below the poverty line.

That is the case for 76-year-old West Seattle resident Sue Luke, who relies solely on her monthly Social Security payment to make ends meet. Her first order of business each month is to pay her rent, and then she orders groceries, cat litter and other essential items that she has put off until the first of the month.

Sue Luke, 76, of West Seattle, relies solely on her monthly Social Security payment to make ends meet. Her first order of business each month is to pay her rent, and then she orders groceries, cat litter and other essential items that she has put off until the first of the month.

| Courtesy AARP Washington

“Social Security means everything to me. Without it, I would really be up a deep creek,” Luke said. “If something happened to my payments, I would definitely have to find work, but honestly, physically, I’m just not up to it. I use a walker now, so I doubt anyone would want me.”  

Social Security provides crucial financial protection for people with disabilities, children who lose a parent and surviving spouses. And it’s earned – paid for with every paycheck, from your first job to your last.

The impact of Social Security ripples through our economy, generating nearly $32 billion in annual economic activity across Washington to support local businesses, jobs and communities.

Protecting what we’ve earned

Despite its success, Social Security is under pressure. Across Washington and the nation, people face long wait times, understaffed offices and confusing policy changes that make it harder for individuals to access benefits they have rightfully earned.

And while Social Security is not “going broke,” it does face a funding shortfall. The latest report from the Social Security Board of Trustees warns that by 2033, benefits could be cut by 20% if Congress fails to act. That’s unacceptable – Social Security must remain financially strong for today’s retirees and for generations to come.

As we mark 90 years of strength and shared commitment, let’s stand together to protect Social Security.

Learn more and get involved at aarp.org/socialsecurity.

Marguerite Ro is the AARP Washington state director.