Number: 98-422
Title: Social Security and the Federal Budget: What Does Social Security's Being "Off Budget" Mean?
Authors: David Stuart Koitz, Domestic Social Policy Division 
Abstract: As a result of a series of laws enacted in 1983, 1985, and 1990, Social Security is considered to be "off budget" for federal budget purposes. While the meaning of this might seem obvious, many people are confused by the continued use of budget figures that count Social Security in the totals. This report discusses how Social Security is presented in official budget documents and how it is treated in the congressional budget process.
Pages: 17
Date: Updated August 29, 2001