What is the primary purpose of Social Security?

The primary purpose of Social Security is to provide financial support during retirement and disability. This program is designed to offer economic security to individuals who are no longer able to work due to age or disability, ensuring that they have a source of income to meet their basic needs.

Social Security functions as a safety net, helping individuals maintain a standard of living after they retire or if they become unable to work due to a qualifying disability. This aspect is fundamental to the program's design, as it directly addresses the financial challenges that come with aging and unforeseen health issues.

Other options, while related to social welfare, do not reflect the core mission of Social Security. For example, the program does not directly fund public welfare programs, which may encompass a broader range of services and support systems. Similarly, while Social Security does have connections to health benefits through Medicare, its principal focus is not on providing healthcare but rather on ensuring income stability. Lastly, there is no connection between Social Security and support for educational initiatives, as that falls under different programs and governmental responsibilities. Thus, the emphasis on financial support for retirement and disability is what distinctly defines the primary purpose of Social Security.