Social Security Could Be Under Threat From AI [View all]

Source: Newsweek

Published Dec 26, 2025 at 11:02 AM EST


A report published by Barron's on Friday pointed out some of the negative effects that artificial intelligence (AI) could have on the Social Security Administration (SSA), which is already facing a funding gap as early as 2033. If AI cuts into more jobs, then the number of workers' wages sustaining the social safety net program would get even smaller, with potentially widespread implications for current and future beneficiaries alike.

Why It Matters

Social Security is primarily financed through payroll taxes on workers and employers. These taxes flow into trust funds from which benefits are paid to retirees, disabled individuals, and survivors of deceased workers.

The Social Security Board of Trustees has repeatedly stated that the program’s trust fund may be depleted by 2033, at which point only about 77 percent of scheduled benefits could be paid unless Congress intervenes.

What To Know

Analysts have warned that AI and automation could significantly shrink the payroll tax base. As machines increasingly perform tasks once completed by human workers, especially in white-collar and mid-level jobs, this could lead to widespread job displacement or underemployment.


Read more: https://www.newsweek.com/social-security-could-be-under-threat-from-ai-11272142