Research Library

Doing some policy research? Need some background materials? You've come to the right place.

Note: Documents in the library are organized by issue area — and PDFs require Adobe Reader (free download/upgrade available).

Social Security is an Essential Lifeline for America’s Women and Families

Social Security is the largest source of retirement income for most seniors, helping millions pay for food, housing and other necessities late in life. Fifty-four million Americans1, including 26.1 million adult women who are widowed, retired or face a serious disability, depend on it.2 There is no other guaranteed wage-replacement program, public or private, that offers the same level of economic security — yet lawmakers continue to consider deep cuts and potentially punitive structural changes to the program.