Finding ways to save Social Security is at the top of many Americans' minds, and for good reason. The program, which provides a safety net for over 70 million Americans, is facing a financial shortfall. If nothing is done by 2035, it could run out of money in its trust fund. That would force a 17% reduction in Social Security benefit payments.
There are many reasons that Social Security is in trouble, but changing demographics is the primary one. The chart below demonstrates that America's aging population means fewer young workers are paying into the system per retiree, with the trend gaining steam over the next two decades.
