What Does Social Security Provide?

According to the Social Security Administration as of 2010, 160 million people pay Social Security taxes and 52 million people receive benefits each month. Individuals who are eligible for benefits are retirees, the disabled, survivors of deceased workers and the dependents of beneficiaries.

Retirement

Each month, the Social Security Administration pays Social Security retirement benefits to 36 million retired individuals. The benefits provide income to individuals when they retire. On average, a retiree receives 40 percent of his income. The age at which a worker retires affects the amount he receives in benefits.

Disability

An individual who is unable to work due to a physical or mental condition may be eligible for disability benefits. The condition must be expected to last no less than one year or result in death. Supplemental Security Income provides disability benefits for disabled children or adults, the blind or seniors with limited income and resources.

Survivor Benefits

Following the death of the family wage earner, his spouse, children and parents may be eligible for survivors' benefits. Each month, eligible family members receive 75 to 100 percent of the deceased's Social Security benefits. A family is eligible for a combined benefit up to 180 percent of the deceased's benefit rate.

Divorced Spouses

In specific situations, a divorced spouse is eligible for retirement and survivor benefits.

References

• Social Security Administration: Understanding the Benefits

Resources

• Social Security Administration: Benefit Eligibility Screening Tool