Social Security is a government program in the United States that provides income to retired individuals, as well as those with disabilities and surviving family members of workers who have passed away. It is funded through payroll taxes and provides a monthly benefit to eligible individuals.

Pensions are retirement plans provided by employers to their employees. These plans typically offer a guaranteed income stream during retirement, based on factors such as years of service and salary history. Pensions can be either defined benefit plans, where the employer bears the investment risk, or defined contribution plans, where the employee bears the investment risk.

Investments for retirement refer to the various financial vehicles individuals use to save and grow their money for retirement. This can include stocks, bonds, mutual funds, real estate, and other investment options. The goal of these investments is to generate income and build wealth over time to support individuals during their retirement years.