Social Security is a federal program of financial and medical benefits for the elderly, disabled, or surviving spouse and dependent children. It is based upon employer and employee contributions. Social Security provides cash benefits and Medicare insurance to those who have contributed during their employment. Supplementary Security Income provides cash payments to the needy aged, disabled (including disabled children) and blind to insure a minimum income. Benefits may include: Retirement, Disability, Medicare, Survivors for spouses and dependent children, and Supplemental Security Income