Impact of Illegal Immigrants on Welfare and Social Security

Illegal immigrants represent the demographic least likely to access welfare programs in the United States, contributing significantly to systems like Social Security. Estimates suggest that illegal immigrants contribute approximately $12 billion annually to Social Security, despite not being able to receive benefits, thereby alleviating some financial pressures on the program. Furthermore, while immigrants may access tax credits like the earned income tax credit at slightly higher rates than natives, this is attributable to their lower average incomes and employment rates. Overall, policymakers could improve the welfare system by excluding non-citizens from means-tested programs, which could save around $100 billion yearly.