March 4, 2009 in Letters

Social Security increases unfair

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I agree with most of what Froma Harrop wrote in her Feb. 19 column, “Social Security requires no fixin’.” I feel it does need some fixing.

The way Social Security figures cost-of-living increases is unfair. Every raise is figured on the person’s present SS income. The last raise was 5.8 percent. If the person is receiving only $200 a month, the increase would be $11.60. The person receiving $1,200 a month would receive $69. Don’t we all pay practically the same price for a gallon of gas, a loaf of bread, a quart of milk?

I would like each SS recipient to get an equal amount, whether it is $10, $50 or whatever. The present system means the rich get richer, the poor are not getting much help. My check is under $200. The Medicare increase took all my raise.

I am not complaining. I never planned on SS being my main retirement income. I was a happy homemaker and became the surrogate parent for children in the neighborhood whose parents worked away from home full time. I did a lot of volunteer work.

If you agree with me, let your elected officials know.

Tressia Anderson

Spokane

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