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When Will Congress Repay Social Security Money Taken Years Ago?

Dear Rusty,

I seem to remember that Congress borrowed a total of 4 trillion dollars from SS back in the 1980's and 1990's. When will this be repaid with interest?

— Concerned Senior

Dear Concerned Senior:

I’m afraid your recollection is not correct – no politicians (Congress or Presidents) have ever taken money from the Social Security (SS) Trust Funds – not in the 1980s, nor 1990s, not ever. Congress and Presidents are prevented by law from using Social Security money for any purpose other than paying SS benefits to beneficiaries and for paying the operating costs of administering the program.

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