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Congressional Response: Senator Geogre Allen (R, VA) Responds to Your Notch Petition
Thank you for contacting me regarding the Social Security "Notch" issue. I appreciate your input and value the opportunity to respond to your concerns. I have been and will continue to be a strong advocate for the rights of Seniors. I feel it is imperative that our government keeps the promises that it has made to current retirees, as well as those who are currently paying Social Security taxes and are expecting Social Security benefits to be available to them when they retire. As your Senator, I will work diligently to ensure that every retiree receives the Social Security benefits to which they are entitled. Numerous misunderstandings have arisen about the Social Security "Notch," and have created a sense of injustice among a particular group of retirees. As you may know, in 1972, Congress increased Social Security benefits and instituted a yearly cost-of-living adjustment to Seniors. Unfortunately, Congress incorrectly calculated the adjustment to Social Security, creating a "bonus" to individuals born between 1910 and 1916. Many seniors who do not fall within the 1910-1916 benefit schedule believe they are being unfairly penalized and receiving less in benefits than other Seniors. However, retirees born between 1917 and 1921 actually receive greater benefits, as a percentage of earnings before retirement, than those individuals that will are born after them. Their total benefit amounts are smaller than those who follow them, because wages have risen, causing benefits to rise as well (since Social Security benefits are based on a person's wages). In 1994, Congress convened a commission to study the "Notch" issue and determine what steps should be taken to fix this problem. The principal finding of the Commission was that benefits paid to those in "Notch" years are equitable and no remedial legislation is in order. However, should legislation regarding the Social Security "Notch" come to the Senate floor, I will make certain to keep your thoughtful comments in mind. Thank you again for taking the time to contact me. If you would like to receive an e-mail newsletter about my initiatives to improve America, please sign up on my website ( With warm regards, I remain | ||||||||
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