Description: This article is the second in a two part series that summarizes a longer paper that can be downloaded from the website of the Social Insurance and Public Finance Section. Both articles take the form of a point-counterpoint dialogue addressing important aspects of social insurance programs. The first part discussed their nature, desirability and advantages, as well as whether they can form a framework to achieve sustainable inter-generational equity. This article focuses on whether pre-funding of a social insurance program can occur and can contribute to the financial security of the participants. Fundamental differences of opinion exist regarding these programs, not only due to different personal and political values, but also as a result of the viewpoint taken (for example, assessment of the program in isolation, consideration of the sponsoring government's financial situation, or the overall national economy).

Description: This article is about a consumer education program sponsored by the Society of Actuaries Foundation, “On the edge of change: Putting Social Security back in balance” and plans for a similar project dealing with Medicare in the future.

Description: This article encourages pension actuaries to read a 16-page paper, available on the Internet from the National Commission on Retirement Policy, regarding the challenges of the next decade on how to put federal programs for senior citizens on a sound financial footing.

Description: The article presents descriptions of the July, 2015, newsletter articles, and the author suggests topics where future articles are welcome.

Description: This article discusses the financing issues of Social Security and Medicare benefits and how reforms are necessary in the near future.