Can non-citizens both contribute to and benefit from Social Security?

Non-citizens can indeed contribute to and benefit from Social Security if they have valid work authorization. This means that individuals who are legally permitted to work in the United States, such as those holding nonimmigrant visas (like H-1B or L-1 visas), or those with temporary protected status, can pay Social Security taxes while working. Provided that they meet the necessary work credit requirements, these non-citizens can later qualify for Social Security benefits, including retirement, disability, and survivor benefits.

This framework is based on the understanding that Social Security is designed to provide benefits primarily based on contributions made through payroll taxes. Therefore, as long as a non-citizen has the legal right to work and pays into the system, they can enjoy the benefits it offers.