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Josephine Nesbit

Can You Really Retire on Social Security Alone in 2026? An Honest Budget Breakdown

MariuszBlach / iStock.com

Last year, most Americans believed you needed $1.26 million to retire comfortably, according to Northwestern Mutual. But can you retire with less? And what if you have only your Social Security benefits?

For many retirees, Social Security accounts for the bulk, or even the entirety, of their retirement income. According to experts, here’s what a realistic budget would look like for retirees who depend solely on Social Security.

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