You are correct. One does not have to be retirement age to collect Social Security payments. Social Security also covers workers who become disabled prior to retirement age. However, in order to collect Social Security Disability Income (SSDI), one must have a qualifying employment record. Those who don't have qualifying employment records might be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), but only if they meet the strict poverty standards that program requires.
Please don't misunderstand me......I am by no means a cheerleader for the Social Security system. I'm just telling you how it works.