Social Security, the basis of Americans' retirement security for more than 75 years, is coming under increased scrutiny because of its projected long-term financial problems. President Obama's bipartisan commission of Fiscal Responsibility and Reform issued a report in December 2010 that suggested long-term changes to the program including gradually raising the normal retirement age for full benefits to age 69, trimming benefits for wealthier retirees and raising the amount of wages subject to payroll taxes that fund the program. With baby-boomers turning 65 at the rate of 8,000 per day (every day for the next 18 years), the pressure is on to come up with fixes to ensure the program lasts another 75 years.

So how well do you know Social Security? Take our quiz to better understand this vital federal program, which provides an important piece of most retirees' income. In fact, the decisions you make about when and how to take benefits can help fortify your financial security in retirement. Some of our secret strategies to boost your benefits may surprise you, too.