Report: Many African Americans denied social security benefits
Of the approximately 40 million seniors residing in the U.S., one-tenth, or 4 million are not receiving Social Security old age support. Of that 4 million, one-third are minorities.
That’s according to research found by New America Media.
In fact, according to the U.S. Census, one-in-six African American, one fifth of Latino—and nearly one-in-three (29 percent) Asian American and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) seniors cannot draw on the national retirement pension program to make financial ends meet.
Many older African Americans who don’t qualify for Social Security “have lived under the radar because they have worked in domestic roles and been paid cash for their labors” with no contributions going to the program, said Karyne Jones, president and CEO of the National Caucus and Center on Black Aging (NCBA) based in Washington, D.C.
Read more at New America Media
Another factor affecting access to Social Security support is the high level of incarceration among black men. As they’re released at older ages, many will end up with little to no social security benefits due to lack of consistent employment.
Another group severely affected by ineligibility for Social Security is immigrants. Many arrive at older ages end up with little to no coverage.
If we don’t stop this trend, a lot of our black people will be in trouble when they mature.
How should this issue be addressed?
What can we do as community members to better inform our people?
Sound off below!