Understanding Social Security Second Edition

The second edition of this important text reviews policy developments since 1997. The chapters have been extensively updated and there are new chapters on social security reform, inequalities and social security, and the new 'welfare market'.

Everybody uses the term social security, but definitions vary widely. This unique book may be conceived as a wide-ranging definition, although in fact it emphasizes only part of the concept: that administrative function that grants cash benefits to offset or compensate for such social risks as old age, disability, unemployment, costs of health care, and other instances occasioning the lack of means necessary for a decent existence. In an earlier form (1993), this book proved itself as a much-sought-after introduction to the field, for governments as much as for law students. In this completely revised and updated work, Professor Pieters again offers, this time to a new generation of scholars and policymakers, a common language and structure with which to talk and think about social security. The presentation is both abstract (theory of social security) and concise (structure of social security systems). In taking into account the diversity of ways in which social security has been shaped by priorities of place and time, Dr Pieters delineates the distinct alternatives that can be adhered to in establishing a social security system. He builds a frame in which these various concepts, principles, options, and techniques can be put into perspective. Although this approach hints at a common law of social security, Dr Pieters goes no further in that direction than a brief general survey (in his last chapter) of the possible features of a comparative social security law. Social Security: An Introduction to the Basic Principles is sure to find a welcome among many sectors of the legal and policy communities. Full of insight and information, and eminently readable, the book may be seen in a number of different ways: as a road map explaining the social security systems of various states; as an overview of the various options available for building a social security system; as an exploration of the possibilities of rethinking or reforming an existing system; as the first tentative step toward a scientific discipline of comparative social security law; and much else besides.

Product DescriptionSocial Security has a long-term financing problem. More of us will soon be collecting benefits with not many more paying taxes to support the program. The Social Security Fix-It book is a short, colorful guide to the program, its financing issues, and the leading proposals for eliminating the shortfall. Cheerfully narrated and easy to read, this book seeks to raise public awareness to achieve a long-lasting solution.About the AuthorAlicia H. Munnell is the Director of the Center for Retirement Research at Boston College and the Peter F. Drucker Professor in Management Sciences at the Carroll School of Management at Boston College. Steven A. Sass is Associate Director for Research at the Center for Retirement Research at Boston College. Andrew Eschtruth is Associate Director for External Relations at the Center for Retirement Research at Boston College.

A complete guide to Social Security disability benefits—everything you need to know, from qualifying and applying for your benefits to appealing the denial of a claim. Written by a former Social Security Administrative & doctor, this book provides a unique behind-the-scenes look at how, the SSA decides who is disabled and deserves benefits.

Social Security Sense provides practical knowledge on the Social Security claiming options and rules you must know before you file to begin benefits. This is a book that everyone age 55 or older should read before they begin their benefits - and it covers all the new rules that became law on Nov. 2, 2015.The rules are complex and you may get less income if you aren't aware of your choices. With Social Security Sense you'll see easy-to-follow examples that show you how doing things one way vs. another can lead to more money for you. You'll learn how to value your benefits and how to compare claiming choices in a fair and mathematically correct way. With a clear easy-to-understand outline of the rules, as well as pages of examples and references to online resources, you'll be ready to make the best decision possible for you and your family.Shows you how to value your benefitsExplains how inflation adjustments are applied to your future incomeCovers special rules that apply if you were born on or before 1/1/1954Provides comprehensive information for marrieds, divorcees, singles and widow/widowersIllustrates choices with over 15 tables showing many real-life examples

This publication informs advocates & others in interested agencies & organizations about supplemental security income (SSI) eligibility requirements & processes. It will assist you in helping people apply for, establish eligibility for, & continue to receive SSI benefits for as long as they remain eligible. This publication can also be used as a training manual & as a reference tool. Discusses those who are blind or disabled, living arrangements, overpayments, the appeals process, application process, eligibility requirements, SSI resources, documents you will need when you apply, work incentives, & much more.

Contemporary social policy has never been more vigorously contested. Issues range from single-issue campaigns over housing, social care, hospital closures through to organised movements around disability, environment, health and education. However, the historical and contemporary role played by social movements in shaping social welfare has too often been neglected in standard social policy texts. Understanding social welfare movements is the first text to bring together social policy and social movement studies. Using actual case studies and written in an accessible and engaging style, it will attract a wide readership of undergraduate and postgraduate students, higher education teachers and researchers, stakeholders and activists. Introductory chapters examine the historical and theoretical relationship between state welfare and social movements. Subsequent chapters outline the historical contribution of various social movements to the creation of the welfare state relating to Beveridge's 'five giants' of idleness, ignorance, squalor, illness and want. The book then examines the contemporary challenge posed by 'new social movements' in relation to the family, discrimination, environment, and global social justice. The book provides a timely and much needed overview of the changing nature of social welfare as it has been shaped by the demands of social movements.

Traces the history of social security, explains how to apply for benefits and appeal decisions, and looks at retirement, disability, and Medicare benefits