Social Security: Ten Facts that Matter

Social Security insures families against the loss of income caused by retirement, disability, or death, with nearly universal coverage; Social Security insurance covers 94 percent of workers in paid employment and self-employment. The program has been a success; however, Social Security has a long-term solvency challenge.

This Fact Sheet discusses ten important facts regarding Social Security and its future:

• Social Security insurance protects all age groups.
• Social Security provides a retirement benefit that is guaranteed for life and is adjusted to keep pace with inflation.
• Social Security benefits are adequately funded for another 32 years.
• Social Security is the principal source of family income for nearly half of older Americans.
• Social Security keeps older Americans out of poverty.
• Social Security benefits are progressive.
• Social Security is crucial for women.
• Social Security provides critical income support to minorities.
• Trust fund assets earned interest at 5.1 percent in 2008, and the cost of administering Social Security is minimal.
• Social Security is the foundation of workers' retirement security, but it was never intended to be the only source.

(6 pages)