"Gfretwell" wrote in message
...
My question is still: When did Social Security become the national
retirement act?

1935

From SSA.gov FAQ;
Q4: Is it true that Social Security was originally just a retirement
program?

A: Yes. Under the 1935 law, Social Security only paid retirement benefits
to
the primary worker. A 1939 change in the law added survivors benefits and
benefits for the retiree's spouse and children. In 1956 disability
benefits
were added.



They paid retirement benefits. But it appears to now be the total, full
load of benefits retirement plan.