Fast Facts & Figures About Social Security, 2005
The original print and web versions of this report contained an error in the narrative description of the “SSI Beneficiaries, 1974–2004” charts in the Children section. The number of blind and disabled children receiving SSI payments in 1996 was incorrect. The correct number (955,000) now appears in the web versions of this report.
The PDF version of this chartbook that was originally posted had the wrong chart for "Median income of the aged, by marital status" on page 4. The chart, which was correct in the HTML and print versions, has been updated in the PDF version.
Preface
Fast Facts & Figures answers the most frequently asked questions about the programs SSA administers. It highlights basic program data for the Social Security (retirement, survivors, and disability) and Supplemental Security Income programs. Most of the data come from the Annual Statistical Supplement to the Social Security Bulletin, which contains more than 250 detailed tables. The information on the income of the aged is from the data series Income of the Population 55 or Older. Data on trust fund operations are from the 2005 Trustees Report.
The tables and charts illustrate the range of program beneficiaries, from the country's oldest to its youngest citizens. In all, more than 52 million people receive some type of benefit or assistance.
Rona Blumenthal prepared this chartbook. Staff of the Division of Information Resources edited the chartbook and prepared the print and electronic versions for publication.
Susan Grad
Acting Associate Commissioner for Research, Evaluation, and Statistics
September 2005
