National Social Security Month takes place in April and is dedicated to making everyone pay attention to the importance of social security programs and services. There’s no way to predict the future, but we can make choices today to alleviate the uncertainty. Social security programs have been supporting millions of Americans since their inception. Are you looking for more control over finances? Do you worry about your loved ones and their security? Whatever your concerns and goals, social security can help secure what’s important to you.
History of National Social Security Month
The idea of uncertainty has driven most events in human history. Whether it’s a disease, old age, unemployment, or death – protection against the unknown dominates our actions. These events are inevitable and may threaten our economic security.
We generally turn to family first for security because it’s an inherent need to look out for one another. Throughout history, family assets have functioned as sources of security — commonly practiced ever since people subsisted on agricultural economies.
With the evolution of society, farms gave way to formal organizations such as guilds in Europe. Guilds regulated employment and production, and offered numerous financial benefits to members.
On this side of the ocean, one of the first to propose a retirement security scheme was Thomas Paine. His pamphlet published in 1795 called for a new nation with a new public system of economic security. Many consider his work a precursor to modern-day social insurance.
One of the most significant forerunners of a social security program was the Civil War Pension program in 1862. The pension provided benefits to thousands of disabled veterans, widows, and orphans following the horrors of the Civil War. By 1906, old age was also included as a criterion to receive benefits. The provisions were similar in several ways to the social security programs the world would come to know later.
As societies and economies grew more complex, it was clear that old institutions no longer assured economic security. The Industrial Revolution and urbanization swept across America and advancements in health programs marked a significant rise in life expectancy. The Great Depression became a catalyst for radical action and change.
With President Roosevelt taking office in 1932, the time was ripe for a new alternative. He introduced an economic security proposal based on social insurance, not welfare assistance. The proposal built further on the idea of the Social Insurance Movement prevalent in Europe around this time.
In a message to Congress in 1934, President Roosevelt announced his proposed program for Social Security. On August 14, 1935, he signed the Social Security Act into law.
National Social Security Month FAQs
What are the three types of social security?
Social Security falls into three broad categories: retirement, disability, and survivors’ benefits. Additionally, supplemental benefits help people who cannot earn a sufficient wage on their own.
Is social security paid a month behind?
Social security benefits are paid the month after they are due. For example, the benefits for September come in October, and so on.
Why is my social security direct deposit late this month?
Payments may be delayed for various reasons. Some common ones are a change of address or bank details. If you don’t inform the S.S.A. beforehand, it may take longer to receive your check.
How to Observe National Social Security Month
Read up on social security
Log in to the S.S.A. website to learn about various services and programs. It’s an excellent way to educate yourself and stay informed.
Keep your information updated
If you’re moving houses or cities, remember to change your address online. A small step goes a long way to ensuring you receive payments on time.
Learn tips to save time
Learn what you can do with a “my Social Security” account. Some of its time-saving benefits include instant replacement of social security cards, setting up direct deposits, and changing an address.
5 Facts About Life Insurance That Will Blow Your Mind
More than just life insurance
Many life insurance plans come with valuable add-ons worth more than the death benefit.
Benefits for the terminally ill
Provisions can vary but generally, allowances are made for patients to receive a portion of their benefit in advance.
Support for the disabled
Disability from strokes, cancer, or cardiac arrest can qualify for early payout of funds.
College tuition
Parents can help children by taking out loans from a life policy to pay for college.
Payment for long-term care
Families can add a rider (added benefit) to a life insurance policy to pay for expensive fees associated with long-term care.
Why National Social Security Month is Important
It keeps us informed
National Social Security Month highlights programs we may not know about. The S.S.A. website has helpful articles and F.A.Q.s for everyone.
It’s a reminder to take charge of the future
Social security is much more than a retirement plan. It guarantees income security, health, and disability insurance as well.
A guarantee of fundamental rights
The right to social security is a human right. As our needs evolve with time, policies and programs must keep pace. National Social Security Month offers us ways to understand how to meet our goals.
National Social Security Month dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | April 1 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | April 1 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | April 1 | Thursday |
| 2028 | April 1 | Saturday |
| 2029 | April 1 | Sunday |
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