Social Security is integral to the well-being and economic security of individuals, families, and communities. The Social Security Administration (SSA) currently supports more than 70 million people through one or more of the following programs:
Retirement benefits
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Survivors benefits(also known as "spouses benefits")
Moreover, SSA enrolls people in original Medicare (Part A and Part B). Considering the breadth of Social Security, most people will benefit from the program at some point in their lives.
Social workers play integral roles in helping clients understand, access, and navigate Social Security benefits. NASW met with SSA representatives individually and within a coalition context during the first quarter of 2022. This Practice Alert provides updates on recent developments within SSA. It concludes with NASW advocacy related to Social Security.