Could your Social Security benefits be cut? Here’s how to check yours

The future of Social Security will be a major issue facing the next Congress as lawmakers confront a projected funding shortfall that could affect retirement benefits.

The Old-Age and Survivors Insurance Trust Fund, which helps finance Social Security retirement and survivor benefits, is projected to have enough reserves to pay full scheduled benefits until the fourth quarter of 2032, according to Social Security’s 2026 Trustees Report.

If Congress does not act before the fund’s reserves are depleted, continuing revenue would be enough to pay about 78% of scheduled retirement and survivor benefits.

When Social Security’s retirement and disability trust funds are considered together, reserves are projected to last until 2034. After that, continuing revenue would cover about 83% of scheduled benefits.

Here’s how New Yorkers can check their Social Security records and estimated future benefits now.

How can I check my Social Security benefits?

A my Social Security account allows users to review their earnings history, see their Social Security Statement and obtain personalized estimates of future benefits.

Checking your earnings record is important because Social Security uses your earnings history to calculate benefits.

Social Security also offers online benefit calculators that can estimate retirement benefits at different ages and show how retirement timing can affect monthly payments.

For another estimate, users can enter information into the SSA benefits calculator.

How to check state-administered benefits in NY

Social Security is a federal program and is separate from benefits administered by New York state.

New Yorkers who receive SNAP, HEAP or Public Assistance can use myBenefits NY to apply for certain programs, track applications, recertify benefits, report changes and view case details.

People seeking in-person help with Social Security can use the Social Security Administration website to find a nearby field office.

For more information about Social Security benefits, visit ssa.gov.

CONTRIBUTING: USA TODAY NETWORK

— Madison Scott is a New York Connect reporter, covering entertainment, breaking and consumer news, and trending topics with a focus on stories that matter to readers across New York State. She also has an interest in how the system helps or doesn’t help families with missing loved ones. She can be reached at MDScott@USATodayco.com.

This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Could your Social Security benefits be cut? Here’s how to check yours