Who Really Gets Most Social Security | Durham News

New IRS data reveals that high-income households—earning $100K+ annually—are claiming the largest share of Social Security benefits, snagging 37% of all payouts in 2023. But this snapshot misses millions: low-income retirees who don’t file taxes and families where one earner pulls in that top income are excluded. The system rewards lifetime earnings, meaning higher earners get bigger checks—but those checks replace a smaller percentage of their income. With the trust fund projected to run dry by late 2032, cuts loom for everyone, sparking debates over tax hikes, raising the wage cap, or means-testing. Bottom line: Social Security is vital but not foolproof—building your own retirement nest egg gives you control no politician can take away. Listen in comfort: Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN: [email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting. Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates: https://sources.thednn.ai/c936a52a439fc1bb