Transformative Approaches to Social Security Benefits

Abstract Older adults released from long prison terms face serious barriers when applying for Social Security benefits. Through interviews with formerly incarcerated individuals and service providers, we found that most received little or no support before release, lacked essential documentation, and struggled with digital systems. These challenges,...

Abstract Late-arriving immigrants constitute the largest segment (49%) of Social Security “never beneficiaries,” lacking adequate earnings to qualify for benefits. Many such immigrants work into their older years, due to financial constraints and the pursuit of Social Security eligibility. Using the most recent microdata from the American Community Survey...

Abstract Despite the increasing numbers of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender/gender diverse, queer, and other (LGBTQ+) adults in the United States, there is a dearth of information on their financial well-being as they age. Available data indicate that LGBTQ+ older adults face significant cumulative financial disadvantages in retirement. Prior...

Abstract Precarious (insecure, unstable, and uncertain) employment is a growing concern. Using nationally representative data on workers ages 50 through 62 from the Health and Retirement Study, we find that precarious employment in midlife is common, particularly among disadvantaged groups. Those experiencing it in their 50s through early 60s are less...

Abstract This mixed-methods study examines the impact of cash work and income underreporting on two U.S. communities of color. We investigate how African Americans and Latinos obtain knowledge about Social Security and the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), make decisions to report or underreport pay, and confront barriers to formal payment. Those who...

Abstract The individualized responsibility of student loan repayments impacts the retirement security of older Americans with education debt. Our mixed methods study combines quantitative analysis of large-scale datasets and detailed interviews to understand how older Americans navigate debt obligations and retirement needs. Early findings indicate that...

Abstract The digital transformation of government services has intensified over the past three decades, but many older adults remain more familiar with mobile apps than web-based services, and often prefer in-person on phone-based help with accessing benefits. This article explores findings from interviews with 40 immigrant older adults on how they manage...