For over 90 years, Social Security has been the defining program of American social insurance. Known best as a quintessential piece of retirement planning for almost all Americans, the program’s reach extends far beyond retirement, providing key support for survivors of the deceased and people with disabilities. The people are what make this program possible, funding it through contributions from payroll taxes. Social Security is a program that has created economic security that has transcended political, geographic, and demographic divides for decades.

For millions of older adults, people with disabilities, and children, social security benefits mean putting food on the table, keeping the lights on, and receiving the necessary healthcare they need.