Recipients of Social Security received an increase in benefits in 2025, as they do every year. However, new economic data and policies could spell trouble.

According to a recent Social Security COLA survey by The Motley Fool that asked 2,000 retirees about the COLA, 81% of retirees say that the 2025 COLA will not help them keep up with their essential living expenses. And it isn't hard to see why.

The start of a new year usually means changes to Social Security, and this year is no different. The changes to Social Security retirement benefits and changes that affect workers still paying into the program often get the most attention,

More than half of working adults say they expect to rely on Social Security when they retire, but nearly 3 out of 4 are concerned they will not receive them. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to Bankrate about ways to save for retirement.

The bad news is that you'll lose spousal benefits once you're no longer married, but you could be entitled to a different type of benefit. You'll only qualify for spousal benefits if you're currently married to someone who is entitled to either retirement or disability benefits.

Social Security benefits become available to those who qualify as early as the age of 62, but if you can wait until 70, you'll get the maximum payment in your monthly check. That said, sometimes it doesn't make financial sense to wait.

Understanding the intricacies of Social Security can significantly impact your financial future. Whether you're planning to claim benefits soon or are already a recipient, knowing the key aspects of the program is crucial.