Social Security News 2025: Michelle Singletary on What Retirees Must Know

Social Security is making headlines again — but what do the latest reports really mean for retirees, near-retirees, and younger generations? In this episode of HerMoney with Jean Chatzky, we’re joined by Michelle Singletary, nationally syndicated personal finance columnist for The Washington Post, to separate fact from fear.

We cover the most important Social Security news, including:
What a potential 20–25% shortfall in 2033 actually means.
Why your check won’t disappear — and the realistic fixes Congress might make.
Why more Americans are claiming Social Security early (applications are up 13% this year).
The biggest myths about how Social Security really works.
Michelle’s advice for retirees: paying off your mortgage, building an emergency cushion, and knowing your numbers.
What Gen X, millennials, and Gen Z should do now to prepare.

Michelle Singletary’s clear-eyed perspective will help you feel less anxious — and more empowered — about your retirement future.

⏱️ Timestamps
0:00 – Intro: Why Social Security is in the news
1:30 – What the 2033 shortfall could mean
5:15 – Why the trust fund is running dry
10:00 – Should you claim Social Security early?
14:00 – Social Security for couples and survivors
18:00 – Gen X and millennials: what to expect
20:00 – Senators Cassidy & Kaine’s investment plan
23:00 – Are we headed for a recession?
27:00 – Emergency funds vs. “life happens” funds
29:00 – Michelle’s top retirement priorities
32:00 – Women and money: why you must take charge

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