Raise the minimum benefit for someone who has worked 30 years to 125% of the federal poverty line
Increasing the minimum monthly benefit for someone who worked 30 years from $1,066 to $1,570 which would increase the shortfall by 7%, is supported by 70% to 73% in the swing states. This includes majorities of Republicans (65%-72%) and Democrats (68%-78%). Nationally, 71% are in support. The minimum benefit would rise with inflation, and always be set at 125% of the federal poverty line.
Arguments For & Against
Pro Argument
The current minimum benefit is below the poverty line. It should be a basic principle that if you work for 30 years and pay your Social Security taxes, your benefits should assure that you can retire with dignity and not be condemned to live in poverty.
Con Argument
Given the difficulty of reducing the Social Security shortfall, we should not be considering any additional benefits. The main problem of covering the shortfall should be solved first and only then should we consider raising the minimum benefit.
| Type | Organization | Date | Nat | Rep | Dem | Gap | Metric |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| New PPC Survey (2026) | Program for Public Consultation | February 2026 | 78% | 76% | 81% | 5% | favor |
| Deliberative Survey | Program for Public Consultation | September 2024 | 71% | 71% | 73% | 2% | other |
Program for Public Consultation — February 2026
Here are some options for increasing Social Security benefits, which would increase the Social Security shortfall. For each, please select whether you favor or oppose. Raise the minimum benefit for those who have worked at least 30 years from the current level of $1,125 a month to $1,630 per month, which would increase the budget shortfall by 8%.
Program for Public Consultation — September 2024
Raise the minimum monthly benefit for those who have worked 30 years or more from $1,066 to $1,570 [increases shortfall by 7%]