Debt Default Threatens Social Security and Medicare Payments for Retirees.

Millions of older Americans who rely on Social Security to pay for basic needs such as food, housing, and healthcare costs are at risk of not receiving their payments if the United States defaults on its financial obligations due to the political stalemate over the government's debt ceiling. The Social Security Administration plans to send contributions to beneficiaries on four dates next month, which would be the first ones at risk of being delayed. Experts warn that the consequences of the impasse in Washington could be dire, threatening essential services, retirement savings, and the overall economy.