Seniors getting smaller checks

February 16, 2010

A majority of seniors are receiving a smaller Social Security check this year than in 2009, according to an annual survey of elderly Americans, released earlier today by The Senior Citizens League (TSCL).

This is not a big surprise, however, since there was no cost-of-living increase in Social Security, while Medicare costs did increase for 2010.

The Social Security check is negatively impacted because many seniors have their Medicare Part D (drug program) or Medicare Advantage premiums automatically deducted, rather than writing a check. Then, too, Medicare Part B costs, significantly higher in 2010, are also deducted from Social Security.

But those deductions do not typically lower overall Social Security checks for most seniors since they receive an annual Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA). Seniors failed to receive a Cost of Living Adjustment in 2010 for the first time since the Automatic COLA was introduced in 1975 due to the slumping economy in the final months of the Bush Administration.

Of seniors receiving smaller checks, one-in-three report receiving at least $31 less per month, and one-in-nine report decreases of $70 or more each month.

In addition, the survey found:

• Almost two-in-three seniors (65 percent) estimate their expenses increased by at least $80 per month in 2009
• 45 percent of seniors cut back on visits to the doctor or hospital outpatient services
• 38 percent postponed filling a prescription or took less than prescribed
• 47 percent had trouble covering their heating, cooling, or electric bills

"Although the economic downturn has been tough for many Americans, few groups have been as hurt as our nation's seniors," said Daniel O'Connell, chairman of The Senior Citizens League. "Too many seniors are no longer living on a fixed income, but rather a shrinking income."

Almost 70 percent of beneficiaries depend on Social Security for 50 percent or more of their income. Social Security is the sole source of income for 15 percent of beneficiaries.

http://www.seniorjournal.com/NEWS/SocialSecurity/2010/20100216-MostSenCitStruggling.htm