What is the primary purpose of Social Security?

The primary purpose of Social Security is to provide financial assistance to retirees, disabled individuals, and survivors of deceased workers. Established in 1935, the Social Security program aims to provide a safety net for individuals in these categories by offering them income support to help meet their basic living standards during times when they are unable to earn wages.

This financial assistance is generated through payroll taxes collected from workers and their employers, making it a critical pillar of retirement income for many Americans. The benefits provided by Social Security are designed to replace a portion of the earnings that individuals may have lost due to retirement, disability, or the death of a family breadwinner, thereby helping to alleviate poverty among these vulnerable populations.

While other options touch on important social issues, they do not accurately reflect the foundational goal of Social Security. The program does not focus on tax credits or public healthcare funding, nor is it specifically aimed at housing assistance for seniors, which are addressed by different government programs and initiatives.