One positive aspect of Social Security is that the program is set up to adapt to economic changes. Each year, for example, Social Security benefits are eligible for an automatic cost-of-living adjustment.

You file for Social Security once you're old enough to do so. Here are three little-known Social Security rules all married retirees should know. It's no secret that one spouse can claim Social Security retirement benefits based on the other spouse's earnings history.

Social Security plays a big role in many Americans' retirement security. In fact, 40% of Americans ages 65 and older rely on Social Security for at least half their income, according to the AARP.