Introduction
The SOCIAL SECURITY ACT and related laws establish a
number of programs which have the basic objectives of providing
for the material needs of individuals and families, protecting
aged and disabled persons against the expenses of
illnesses that could otherwise exhaust their savings, keeping
families together, and giving children the opportunity to grow up
in health and security. These programs include:
- A. Retirement insurance.
- B. Survivors insurance.
- C. Disability insurance.
- D. Hospital and medical insurance for the aged, the disabled,
and those with end-stage renal disease.
- E. Black lung benefits.
- F. Supplemental security income.
- G. Unemployment insurance.
- H. Public assistance and welfare services.
- 1. Aid to needy families with children.
- 2. Medical assistance.
- 3. Maternal and child health services.
- 4. Child support enforcement.
- 5. Family and child welfare services.
- 6. Food stamps.
- 7. Energy assistance.
The Federal Government operates the retirement, survivors,
disability, hospital and medical insurance, black lung benefit,
and the supplemental security income programs. The programs listed in
G. and H. above are operated by the States with Federal
cooperation.
