Hundreds of thousands of Social Security recipients were jolted recently by notices warning that their benefits would be reduced starting in June.

The reason?

Delinquent federal student loans. However, in a last-minute reversal, the Trump administration announced a pause on the garnishment of Social Security checks for borrowers in default.

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The initial warnings, issued by the Departments of Education and Treasury, triggered widespread concern among older Americans, especially those already living on fixed incomes.

While the temporary suspension may offer short-term relief, it does little to clarify the long-term picture or ease the financial vulnerability of retirees with government debt.

Tania Melnyczuk on Unsplash

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