The Social Security Administration has updated its Social Security Handbook. The Handbook is an easily readable tool to help beneficiaries and others understand the Social Security programs and services. It also contains brief descriptions of related programs administered by other agencies.

In general, this version of the Handbook includes the provisions of the Social Security Act (the Act), as amended through December 31, 2000, regulations issued under the Act, and precedential case decisions (rulings). This new Handbook replaces the previous 1997 edition.

You can view the handbook online at www.ssa.gov.