How does Social Security work?
- How does Social Security work?
- Does Social Security cover retirees only?
- How does my work now equal benefits later?
- Am I eligible for Social Security benefits?
- How do I know I'm getting credit for the years I worked?
- What about my eligibility for Medicare benefits?
- When can I start getting payouts?
- Why should I wait past age 62 to start collecting?
- How much will my payouts be if I collect at 62?
- How much will my payments be if I wait until age 70?
- Can I start collecting benefits if I'm still working?
- What's the best age to start getting payouts?
- How big will my payouts be?
- What if I want to work part-time in retirement?
- Will my spouse and kids receive benefits when I die?
- How do Social Security disability payments work?
- Will I get taxed on my Social Security payouts?
- Will Social Security still exist when I retire?
- How does Social Security fit into my retirement plan?
A financial safety net for older Americans, Social Security was established in 1935 by the Social Security Act. Before that, support for the elderly wasn't a federal concern - it mostly fell to states, towns and, of course, families.
The program is based on contributions that workers make into the system. While you're employed, you pay into Social Security; you receive benefits later on, when it's your turn to retire. Contributions take the form of the Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA) taxes that are withheld from most paychecks.
Medicare benefits are commonly considered part of Social Security benefits, although technically Medicare is a separate program. Medicare contributions are withheld from your paycheck in much the same way as your Social Security contributions; FICA taxes support Social Security and Medicare.
