Social security benefits provide retirement, disability, and survivor benefits that are funded through payroll taxes called FICA. The social security program had over 54 million beneficiaries and 157 million workers contributing in 2020, with 44 million receiving retirement benefits and 10 million receiving disability benefits. The social security system has improved benefits since its establishment in 1935 to help address risks like old age, poverty, unemployment, and support for widows and children.