Millions of Americans receiving Social Security, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), and Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits could see significant changes if Congress passes the Social Security 2100 Act. The bill, introduced by Representative John Larson, aims to strengthen and expand Social Security while ensuring the program remains financially stable for future generations.
One of the most talked-about proposals in the Act is a 2% across-the-board increase in benefits. If approved, this would be the first major boost in over 50 years, helping seniors, disabled individuals, and veterans keep up with the rising cost of living. While some rumors suggest a massive $2,600 monthly raise, this figure represents the maximum potential benefit for high-earning retirees—not the average increase for most recipients.
What’s in the Social Security 2100 Act?
If passed, the Act would introduce several key changes aimed at improving benefits and protecting the program’s long-term stability:
- Higher Monthly Payments – A 2% increase would apply to all current and future Social Security beneficiaries.
- Better Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLA) – The bill proposes using the Consumer Price Index for the Elderly (CPI-E) to calculate COLAs, which would better reflect seniors’ real expenses, such as healthcare and housing.
- Increased Minimum Benefits – The Act sets the minimum benefit at 125% of the federal poverty level, ensuring low-income retirees and disabled individuals receive enough to cover basic needs.
- Repeal of WEP & GPO – The Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO), which reduce benefits for certain public servants, would be eliminated, restoring full payments to affected workers.
- More Funding from High Earners – The bill suggests applying payroll taxes to earnings above $400,000 to help fund Social Security for future generations.
What Does This Mean for SSI, SSDI, and VA Benefits?
These changes could bring significant financial relief to millions of Americans:
- SSI Recipients: The increase in minimum benefits would help lift many low-income individuals out of poverty.
- SSDI Recipients: Those receiving disability benefits would see higher monthly payments and better cost-of-living adjustments.
- Veterans on Social Security: VA beneficiaries who also receive Social Security would benefit from these increases, ensuring their payments keep pace with rising expenses.
When Will This Happen?
As of February 2025, the Social Security 2100 Act is still under congressional review. While it has strong support from many lawmakers and advocacy groups, it has not yet been passed into law. If approved, it could bring much-needed financial relief to millions of Americans who rely on Social Security benefits.
