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🥒 Can You Rely on Social Security?
With Social Security fund depletion looming, experts weigh in on when to claim.
Cam Miller
July 25, 2025
This week, we’re tracking major moves that could reshape how Americans plan for retirement.
President Trump is preparing to open retirement plans to crypto, states are stepping in with auto-IRA programs, and a new study shows your location may do more to determine your financial future than your savings rate.
The retirement landscape is shifting. Here’s what you need to know.
Curious how your own plan stacks up? Take our free 2-minute quiz to get matched with an advisor in the Money Pickle network.
—The Money Pickle Team
‘Work Longer’ May Not Be the Fix You Think It Is
A Forbes column breaks down why simply working longer won’t solve the looming retirement crisis. For many, staying at work longer could be detrimental to their health. Since longevity gains haven’t been evenly shared, physically demanding jobs or poor health often make extended careers unrealistic for millions.
States Step In Where Employers Haven’t
From Colorado to Nevada, more states are launching auto-IRA programs to help workers without employer-sponsored retirement plans. These state-backed accounts automatically deduct savings from paychecks — and early data shows they’re having an impact, especially among low-income earners.
Trump’s Big Crypto Retirement Bet
In a sweeping executive order expected any day now, President Trump is poised to open up 401(k)s to cryptocurrencies and other “alternative” investments. The goal? Diversify retirement holdings and spark innovation. Critics, however, warn of complexity, volatility, and limited transparency — particularly for everyday savers.
Location, Location, Location
According to a new Seniorly study, retirees in 41 states — including New York, California, and Hawaii — are likely to outlive their savings. Why? Longer lifespans, higher costs, and insufficient retirement income. Washington, Utah, and Montana came out on top for retirement “surplus.”
The Social Security trust fund is projected to run dry by 2033, but financial experts warn against claiming benefits early out of fear. Delaying benefits will still mean higher lifetime payouts, even if partial reductions occur. The key is preparing a flexible plan for multiple possible outcomes.
🥒 Pickle Tip:
Geography, health, and policy changes all shape your retirement outcome, not just your savings rate. Understanding the whole picture is key.
🌟 Final Thought
Retirement planning isn’t about having all the answers — it’s about asking the right questions early. If any of this week’s headlines gave you pause, that might be your cue to dig deeper. A quick chat with an advisor in the Money Pickle network could help turn uncertainty into a smarter, more confident plan.
Without a smart wealth strategy, gains can disappear faster than they grow. That’s why we’ve made it simple to connect with a trusted, vetted advisor who can help you:
✅ Protect your profits from taxes and market swings
✅ Build long-term wealth without the guesswork
✅ Hit your financial goals faster with a tailored plan
It only takes 5 minutes to get matched — and it’s completely free to use Money Pickle to connect and speak with vetted financial advisors.
Make sure your wins today fuel your future success.