"Social Security covers virtually all private sector employees and about 72% of public employees.... At the end of 2025, it was providing benefits to 70 million people In 2025, it paid out $1.60 trillion in benefits and expenses and received income of $1.45 trillion.... The year in which a worker attains age 62, dies, or becomes disabled is called the 'eligibility year.' Benefit computations are based on the benefit formula parameters in effect for the eligibility year."  MORE >>