What is the Social Security retirement program?
The Social Security retirement program is a federal insurance program for eligible workers 62 years and over. The program provides cash benefits for retired workers who have worked in Social Security covered jobs and have earned enough credits to qualify. Family members may also qualify for benefits based on the work record of the eligible worker. Benefits are based on the age at which the worker retires, and his/her average annual earnings. Social Security retirement is not a need-based program.
