Social Security and Safety Net Programs

Social Security is the federal safety net program that provides monthly income to nearly 72.5 million Americans, including retirees, people with disabilities, and family members of deceased workers. Managed by the Social Security Administration, this program replaces a portion of your earned income based on your work history and contributions. Beneficiaries received a 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) in 2025, with a 2.8% COLA announced for 2026 to help benefits keep pace with inflation.

Types of Benefits

Social Security offers three main types of benefits: retirement, disability, and survivor benefits. Eligibility depends on your work history and Social Security credits earned. Explore your full retirement age and disability eligibility.

Work, Earnings, and Key Changes

For 2026, the maximum taxable earnings threshold rises to $176,100, and earnings-test-exempt amounts increase. Learn about the earnings limit, balancing work and benefits, and self-employment rules.

Additional Support

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) aids low-income elderly, blind, or disabled individuals, also receiving the 2026 COLA. Create a my Social Security account for notices and management, or review contact options.

An Independent Team to Decode Government

GovFacts is a nonpartisan site focused on making government concepts and policies easier to understand — and programs easier to access.

Our articles are referenced by .gov and .mil websites as well as trusted think tanks and publications including Brookings, CNN, Forbes, Fox News, Pew Research, Snopes, The Hill, and USA Today.

All Articles on Social Security and Safety Net Programs

How to Contact the Social Security Administration

The Social Security Administration serves nearly 69 million Americans monthly, providing retirement, disability, and survivor benefits funded by payroll taxes…

Navigating Social Security Statement vs. Benefit Verification Letter

Standing in a mortgage lender's office, you're asked for "proof of Social Security income." You log into your my Social…

The Social Security Disability Determination Process

Applying for Social Security Disability benefits can feel like navigating a maze. This guide breaks down each step of the…

Can I Receive Social Security and Pension Benefits at the Same Time?

Social Security benefits provide financial support for millions of Americans in retirement. But what happens if you also have a…

Military Service and Your Social Security Benefits: A Guide for Veterans

This guide breaks down how your time in uniform can impact your eligibility for Social Security retirement, disability, and survivor…

How to Apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) Benefits

Applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) can seem daunting, involving specific rules, detailed forms, and potentially long waits. This…

Need Proof of Income from Social Security? Your Guide to Getting a Benefit Verification Letter

Navigating government services can sometimes feel overwhelming, but getting proof of your Social Security income is straightforward. Whether you're applying…

Navigating Social Security: A Guide for the Self-Employed

For self-employed Americans, understanding Social Security means building a foundation for financial security. Whether planning for retirement, preparing for potential…