Social Security is a key election issue, CNBC poll finds [Video]

Most Americans rank Social Security as “one of the top” issues or a “very important” issue determining who they will vote for in the upcoming U.S. presidential election, according to a new CNBC poll.

Social Security reform is also a top concern, according to a separate survey from the Nationwide Retirement Institute. The majority of respondents said that a candidate’s stance on the topic would be a major factor in their vote.

CNBC polled 1,001 registered voters July 31-Aug. 4. Nationwide’s poll, conducted April 19-May 13, surveyed 1,831 adults “who currently receive or expect to receive Social Security.”

Absent action from Congress, the trust fund that pays Social Security benefits is due to run out in 2033. At that time, only 79% of benefits will be payable.

With uncertainty about the future funding …