Social Security 101: Understand Social Security. Make a plan with confidence. 

Social Security is critical for millions of Americans. For workers heading into retirement, for those who become disabled and for families who lose their breadwinners early, the program is essential.

Though Social Security is critical to our economic security, the rules can feel confusing, stressful, and hard to navigate when the time comes to make claiming decisions. Moreover, concern about the future financing of the program adds to the stress.

WHY THIS MATTERS

For millions of Americans, Social Security is not extra income. It is the foundation of retirement security. It is also there for people who can no longer work due to a disability, and for survivors–such as spouses, children and dependent parents–of workers who die early.

Many workers claim Social Security retirement benefits as soon as they become eligible at age 62. For some households, claiming early may be necessary. But for others, claiming too soon can permanently reduce monthly benefits and create long-term financial strain.

The claiming decision is critical for low-income workers, families with limited savings, women, and communities of color who rely heavily on Social Security in retirement. Social Security’s on-going viability impacts everyone, including retirees, surviving family members of deceased workers, and workers who develop disabilities.

People often have important questions about the program and their specific situations, especially as they get closer to retirement.