When you pay Social Security taxes, does this create a contractual obligation for the government to pay you Social Security benefits?
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In 1960, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that paying Social Security taxes does not create a contractual right to receive Social Security benefits. Per the Social Security Administration, "There has been a temptation throughout the program's history for some people to suppose that their FICA payroll taxes entitle them to a benefit in a legal, contractual sense. ... Congress clearly had no such limitation in mind when crafting the law. ... Benefits which are granted at one time can be withdrawn...."
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