For millions of retirees, Social Security is more than a government benefit. It is a lifeline. New projections warn monthly checks could fall by about $500 in 2032 if the trust fund runs short. The risk is not immediate. But the numbers reveal why many Americans are growing increasingly concerned.

Social Security beneficiaries face, on average, a $500 monthly cut in benefits if Congress doesn't act soon, a new analysis shows.

Beneficiaries would continue receiving payments if Social Security's trust fund is depleted, but checks could shrink by about 24%, according to a new report.