This casebook covers substantive Social Security law and the key issues relevant to Social Security practice. The book begins with an introductory chapter on the history of the Social Security Act that traces the evolution of Social Security policy from its original limited scope to the complex set of programs it encompasses today. The remainder of the book is divided into two parts. The first part covers basic eligibility requirements, including both financial and categorical criteria. The second part focuses on the administration of Social Security programs, including the administrative appeals process and judicial review. The book touches on all of the Act's major benefit programs; however, since the vast majority of contested Social Security claims involve disability benefits, the eligibility criteria and practice issues relevant to Title II and Title XVI disability programs are discussed in greater detail.