Social Security is largely funded by payroll taxes. Although it is most commonly known for its retirement benefits, it also provides benefits to spouses, survivors – including children – and disabled Americans. It features protections against inflation and is structured to ensure that those on the lower end of the income scale see the largest income replacement in retirement.
Social Security: A Brief Overview
Social Security is a federal program designed to protect individuals and their families from loss of earnings due to retirement, disability, or death. When signed into law in 1935, Social Security covered only retired workers. However, in 1939 Social Security became a family benefit by expanding benefits to include the spouses and minor children of retired and deceased workers. In 1956, Social Security was further expanded by including benefits for disabled workers. Read
Search PPI
Find the public policy institute content you are looking for by entering in search terms below.
News Alerts
Sign up for alerts on the latest research, events and videos on policy issues.
You are leaving AARP.org and going to the website of our trusted provider. The provider’s terms, conditions and policies apply. Please return to AARP.org to learn more about other benefits.
Thank You
Your email address is now confirmed.
You'll start receiving the latest news, benefits, events, and programs related to AARP's mission to empower people to choose how they live as they age.
In the next 24 hours, you will receive an email to confirm your subscription to receive emails
related to AARP volunteering. Once you confirm that subscription, you will regularly
receive communications related to AARP volunteering. In the meantime, please feel free
to search for ways to make a difference in your community at
www.aarp.org/volunteer