Seniors will soon have its first increase in
three years, the government announced Wednesday.
Social security recipients will receive cost of living adjustment
of 3.6% since January.Because Inflation was very low in recent
years, the beneficiaries have not received a COLA increase since
2009, when they received a rate of 5 , 8%.
But most older people are not likely to receive the full amount
of the COLA increase, because the expected increase in premiums
for Medicare Part B can eat a portion of a recovery. The change
in health insurance premiums will be announced next month.
The last two years of benefits remained the same, many older
people were protected from the increase in Medicare premiums
because of a provision of "liberation", which protects over 70%
of the beneficiaries. These recipients will not see their monthly
bill checking Social Security, Medicare for the excursion.
But high-income recipients and new entrants will see their
benefits reduced because they are not covered by this provision.
Health insurance premiums increased 4.4% for 2011.
COLA increases are good news for many older people who have seen
their costs rise, while the monthly Social Security checks have
remained flat, said David Certner, legislative policy director of
AARP.
Social Security plays an important role in maintaining the
elderly and disabled in the feet. Nearly 55 million people
receive Social Security benefits. The average monthly check for
the elderly jumps to $ 43, $ 1,229, while people with
disabilities, will increase to $ 39 and $ 1,111.
Social services account for about 41% of elderly income under the
Social Security Administration. But 22% of married couples and
43% of singles are dependent on the monthly check for 90% of
their income.
10000000 could pay more social security payments.
Many elderly people have been under pressure as banks are paying
virtually no interest on savings accounts and stock market
declines have eroded their retirement accounts. In addition,
health care costs are skyrocketing.
"This is good news for older people, who no doubt feel
abandoned," said Certner. "When you talk to people, do not feel
the costs are down."