Forbes Magazine 2016 Candidates: on Social Security

Ben Carson: Each person should be responsible for their own pension

Ben Carson: Gradually raise the age of eligibility for benefits

Ben Carson: Individuals responsible for pension; with federal supplement

Carson: There is no question that people need pensions, particularly given the extended lifespan we are now experiencing. By changing Fed policies to allow interest rates to rise and encouraging people to put aside some of their earnings, we can hopefully reestablish the idea that each individual is responsible for their own pension and that government programs like Social Security are only supplemental in nature. Each individual needs to determine for themselves how much is enough based on their lifestyle expectancy.

Ben Carson: Raise retirement age gradually; & forbid raiding Trust Fund

Carson: When Social Security was first enacted, the average age of death was about 63 years. It is now approaching 80 years and rising. Obviously we have to adjust to a changing situation. The age at which benefits are distributed should be gradually raised. I stress the word gradually because people must be given a chance to adjust their plans and expectations. It must be forbidden by law for government to use any of the money that has been set aside for Social Security.