Ninety years ago, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed Social Security into law as part of his New Deal. The goal was simple but powerful: protect older Americans from falling into poverty after a lifetime of work.
For our Feds today, Social Security and retirement planning go hand in hand, forming a key piece of the bigger picture. This year alone, 72 million beneficiaries will receive more than $1.6 trillion in payments, making Social Security a lifeline for retired workers, survivors, and people with disabilities, and a cornerstone of retirement security across generations.
Nearly a century later, Social Security continues to deliver on its original promise. It remains a foundation of retirement planning and a steady, dependable benefit our Feds continue to trust.
Social Security’s Lasting Impact
Social Security reaches far beyond monthly checks for retirees. It also provides vital support to people with disabilities and to families who have lost a loved one. Over the decades, these benefits have provided millions of Americans with a measure of financial stability and dignity during some of life’s most challenging transitions.
For our Feds, Social Security plays another important role. Alongside the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), it helps shape a balanced retirement strategy that can carry them through every stage of retirement.
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Commissioner Bisignano’s Vision
At the 90th anniversary celebration, Commissioner Frank J. Bisignano reflected on both the legacy and future of Social Security. He pointed to better customer service, stronger technology, and greater efficiency as his top priorities for the agency. “As we honor this legacy, we are also building a future where service is faster, smarter, and more accessible than ever before,” Commissioner Bisignano said in a press release on August 14, 2025.
In his first 100 days, he highlighted meaningful steps toward these goals, including advances in technology and process improvements designed to make the program easier to navigate. For federal and military workers, this progress matters. Reliable service and streamlined systems directly impact how smoothly they can coordinate Social Security with TSP, pensions, and other benefits that form the foundation of retirement planning.
Presidential Recognition
President Trump signed a proclamation to mark the 90th anniversary, recognizing Social Security’s importance and reaffirming the administration’s commitment to protect the program for future generations.
For our Feds, that commitment is reassuring. Federal employees often coordinate their Social Security benefits with the FERS and the TSP. Knowing that the program continues to have strong support from the highest levels of government helps bring greater confidence as they plan for retirement.
Looking Ahead to the Next 90 Years
Social Security has been a steady foundation for decades, and it will continue to play that role in the years ahead. It remains central to Social Security and retirement planning. How you coordinate it with your FERS, TSP, and other income sources can make all the difference in retirement.
At Serving Those Who Serve, we speak with thousands of federal employees and military personnel every year who want clarity about how Social Security fits into their overall financial plan. That’s where our role comes in. As CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professionals, we help federal and military workers align their benefits with their retirement goals.
Reach out to the team at Serving Those Who Serve at [email protected] for guidance tailored to your situation. Social Security’s 90th anniversary is a reminder of the program’s strength — and of the value in planning wisely so you can make the most of it for decades to come.
The information has been obtained from sources considered reliable but we do not guarantee that the foregoing material is accurate or complete. Any opinions are those of Serving Those Who Serve writers and not necessarily those of RJFS or Raymond James. Any information is not a complete summary or statement of all available data necessary for making an investment decision and does not constitute a recommendation. Investing involves risk and you may incur a profit or loss regardless of strategy suggested. Every investor’s situation is unique and you should consider your investment goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon before making any investment or financial decision. Prior to making an investment decision, please consult with your financial advisor about your individual situation. While we are familiar with the tax provisions of the issues presented herein, as Financial Advisors of RJFS, we are not qualified to render advice on tax or legal matters. You should discuss tax or legal matters with the appropriate professional. **
