I am not sure what you mean by "retired personnel." Perhaps your friend's employer is issuing some kind of bonus, but I have never heard of such a large winfall.However, there are some developments for Social Security in 2009. -- A 5.8 percent cost of living increase on your Social Security payments – the largest adjustment since 1982. For reference, the historic average increase is around 3 percent. -- A $250 check for all Social Security earners. In May, all Social Security beneficiaries will get at extra $250 as part of the Economic Stimulus bill.
