One of the more disturbing facets of inequality in America is that of life itself. These days, the richer you are, the longer you live. This sad fact isn't just consequential for obvious reasons; it is eroding the progressive nature of America's largest welfare program, Social Security.
Social Security's benefits are calculated based on lifetime earnings. Income above $127,200 is not subject to payroll tax, thus limiting both taxation and benefits for the rich. But since the program pays out until death, the longer lifespan of the wealthy means they are collecting a significantly larger share of the benefits (which also holds for Medicare, the second-largest welfare program).
Read Full Article »