Who was the first recipient of a Social Security payment?

Ida May became the first recipient of a Social Security payment when the program officially began in 1935. She received her first check on January 31, 1940. The significance of this event is profound, marking the initiation of the Social Security Administration's role in providing financial assistance to the elderly and disabled citizens of the United States. This program was established to address economic insecurity in old age, which was a common issue during the Great Depression. The choice of Ida May illustrates the historic beginning of these social safety net programs, which have since evolved to support millions of Americans.