Online Posts Misstate Key Details on Social Security Numbers

Elon Musk's tweet referencing 398 million Social Security numbers has led to widespread misinformation, implying an inflated number of beneficiaries. Current U.S. demographics stand at 341 million, with actual recipients projected at 68.4 million for 2024. Experts emphasize that a significant portion of these numbers pertains to non-beneficiaries, including expatriates and individuals who have passed away. The Social Security Administration is actively addressing the issue of improper payments, striving to enhance accuracy in their records. This scenario underscores the importance of verifying information, especially when high-profile figures speak on complex subjects. Accurate understanding is vital to prevent misconceptions regarding benefit distribution and the true scope of eligibility within the system.