Millions of Americans receiving Social Security payments could face financial hardship if the U.S. default occurs, warn Social Security advocates. The negotiations surrounding whether the U.S. government’s ability to borrow money should be expanded are stuck in a stalemate, placing millions of vulnerable Americans at risk. In the event of a default, the ongoing payments for Social Security benefits could be interrupted. 40% of Social Security recipients rely on the payment as their primary income source, leaving them with no financial cushion to soften the financial blow. Experts suggest that this group of Americans should consider putting off discretionary purchases to remain financially prepared. However, for many, this may not be an option. Though not all analysts agree that every beneficiary would be affected equally, most suggest that the worst-case scenario and the possibility of a staggered payment is an unpredictable risk. The impasse between the White House and House Republicans prolongs with no outcome set in stone. Janet Yellen, the U.S. Treasury Secretary, has warned that if Congress fails to raise the debt limit of $31.381 trillion, the United States’ economic situation could worsen. Social Security recipients and others may not receive payments if the government defaults.