New analysis says Social Security trust fund could run out sooner than expected. Here’s what it could mean for retirees

Social Security payments, as we know them, are on life support.

The Old-Age and Survivors Insurance trust fund, which is used to help the U.S. government cover Social Security payments to retirees, will run out of money in six years, according to the Congressional Budget Office, which analyzes and estimates the spending needed for legislation and policies.