Not only that, Jarhead, but another little known SSA "rule" that few know about is this...I know because it happened to me. Only the last few years (no matter that you worked and paid in for 40 years!) count toward your SS disability. I was too physically a mess to work and filed for disability, got turned down...now, I didn't realize they automatically turn you down the first couple times...silly me, I thought it was based on reality of physical condition. So I spent the last 5 years caring for ill relatives and grandkids and living off my savings. When I got too ill to do that I applied again and was told I have NO benefits coming...only the last few years, with enough "credits" paid in count. Now, after paying into this silly scheme for 40 years, I was paying SS before medicare came on board, no matter how ill I become, I can get no benefits...zip...gone, forever. Now my home is for sale, so I can have a way to live. Sweet deal, don't ya think???
One day in the SS office, 4 non English speaking Mexicans, all young and strong looking were there to change their address for their checks. All on SSI...which means they never paid into the system. They simply walk into the system and claim "depression, drug addictions, etc. and bingo...instant checks.
This government needs to start looking out for it's own TAX PAYING citizens....FIRST. I won't hold my breath.
But - at the same time - I also believe in essential fairness, both to us and the people who visit our country. Is it fair to pay in to something that's marketed as a retirement program, without getting any chance of even token payments out of it?
Perhaps saying that illegals do have an interest in the money they have paid in is the first step towards recognizing that you should, too!
D