When deficit reduction is brought up, you can bet Social Security will be mentioned in the next breath. You might think that this means the program is one of the biggest contributors. But the reality is that it doesn't contribute one cent. The program has low overhead cost for a retirement plan, is closely monitored to address potential deficits in the future, and is "purchased with funds deducted from the pay of workers and backed by the full faith and credit of the United States," as Nancy Altman writes.

To get the full scoop on why lowering Social Security benefits is a deficit red herring, read her full post: "To Deficit Hawks: We the People Know Best on Social Security." It's part of our series "Social Security's Fiscal Fitness." **Check in every day this week for another fact about America's best-loved program!