A Timeline of the History of Social Security

timeline of social security
Pexels

The Seniors Center has recently put together a series on the history of Social Security to help our readers learn more about this vital program. Now, AARP has a photo timeline of Social Security that can help bring the program’s past to life.

Starting in the 1930s, the program has undergone a lot of changes. Here are some key moments in the history of Social Security:

  • 1935: President Franklin D. Roosevelt signs the Social Security Act into law.
  • 1939: The first monthly retirement check is issued to Ida May Fuller of Ludlow, Vermont.
  • 1956: Disability benefits are added to the program.
  • 1965: Medicare and Medicaid are established as part of the Social Security program.
  • 1972: Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is established as a needs-based program for low-income seniors.

Today, the Social Security program continues to provide a safety net for millions of Americans. At The Seniors Center, we are committed to helping our readers understand how the program works and how change could affect their benefits. Learn more about our plan to fix Social Security today—and follow us on Twitter and Facebook for more updates.