Briefing Book

White House Conference

Quinalut Indian Nation POST OFFICE BOX 189 TAHOLAH, WASHINGTON 98587 TELEPHONE (360) 276-8211 TO: The White House Conference on Social Security From: James DeLaCruz, Senior Program Manager, Quinault Indian Nation National Congress of American Indians Sub-Committee Chair on Elders Issues Date: 12/0l/98 Re: Social Security The following statement was submitted from the National Indian Council on Aging to the National Congress of American Indians Sub-Committee. This resolution was passed and approved. SOCIAL SECURITY CONCERNS Elders are concerned that the amount being earned by the Social Security Trust fund may not be as much as it could be and question whether the funds are being invested properly. Some elders want the government to take a "hands-off" policy with respect to the Social Security trust fund. Elders are concerned that if there is privatization of Social Security, will the Trust fund be depleted more rapidly? There is a need to establish Social Security officers on reservations to overcome language barriers and ensure that elders have improved access to services to which they are entitled. Direct deposit does not work for many Indian elders because of their lack of access to banking facilities. Elders state that all workers should participate in the Social Security system to ensure the original intent of the system. Some elders are concerned that they are being penalized for the benefits they receive from railroad pensions. Some elders are concerned that when they receive military pensions, there is a reduction to their Social Security benefits. Some elders are concerned about the limit they can contribute to 401 -K plans. Some elders question why their Social Security benefits are terminated because of earnings by their spouses. Some elders question why, when working in government civil service positions, they were not able to pay into Social Security and were hence not eligible for Social Security benefits. Elders want to know about the changes to Medicare and Medicaid. Elders do not want cuts to Medicare. Some elders are concerned that Social Security is going bankrupt. Elders expressed a need for education and information to help them choose between retirement plans. Elders need information on applying for HMO coverage. Elders wonder why they have had deductions for Medicare but do not receive benefits. Elders need information on investments for future generations since young people have lost faith in Social Security. SOCIAL SECURITY RECOMMENDATIONS Advocate for establishment of Social Security offices on reservations to overcome language barriers and ensure that elders have improved access to services to which they are entitled. Through existing organizations in the community, conduct educational programs on Social Security and related issues to clarify eligibility and benefits and to improve access to qualified beneficiaries. Ensure that educational programs and Social Security offices are sensitive to the specific needs of Indian elders and that interactions with elders are conducted in ways consistent with Indian language and culture. December 1, 1998