Most Americans think Social Security won't be there for them. Are they right?

Three-quarters of American workers fear that promised Social Security benefits won’t be there when they retire, a new survey finds.

Generations of workers have fretted about the future of Social Security, the retirement trust fund. Lately, though, unease seems to be rising.

A new Bankrate survey, released Oct. 22, found that 76% of workers and 80% of retirees are concerned that the benefits won’t be paid. A year ago, 73% of workers and 71% of retirees voiced the same fears.

There’s plenty reason for concern. Projections show Social Security faces a shortfall by 2034. At that point, the federal program’s cash reserve will be depleted, and the agency will have enough funds to pay roughly 81% of full retirement benefits, according to an analysis by AARP.

That looming deadline provides a rising arc of dramatic tension for workers and retirees, who can chart its approach on their calendars.