The Social Security Act was enacted in 1935. In 1937, the Federal government began to collect taxes. Between 1937 and 2009, the Social Security programme has collected 13.8 trillion dollars in revenues. One-time payments were made between 1937 and 1939. Monthly benefits began in 1940. Between 1937 and 2009, the Social Security programme has paid out 11.3 trillion dollars in benefits.