Women’s History Month & Social Security: A Story Worth Knowing
Did you know the very first monthly Social Security check ever issued went to a woman?
In 1940, Ida May Fuller became the first person to receive recurring Social Security benefits, and her first payment was just $22.54.
But here’s the part I love…
Back in 1939, Ida casually stopped by her local Social Security office in Rutland, Vermont and said: “I knew I’d been paying into Social Security and I wanted to learn more.”
That curiosity paid off, literally. A year later, she received check number 00-000-001.
“Aunt Ida,” as she was known, was born in 1874 on a farm in Ludlow, Vermont. She worked as a schoolteacher and later as a legal secretary. An everyday woman who became part of history without even trying.
Why This Still Matters Today
Stories like Ida’s remind us of something important: Knowledge and planning matter. especially for women.
I work with many senior women, and one thing is clear: The more informed you are, the more confident and secure you can feel about your future.
Want to Learn More?
If this sparked your curiosity, I highly recommend checking out the official Social Security blog post: Women’s History Month and Social Security | Social Security Matters | SSA
You can also download the updated guide: What Every Woman Should Know, a super helpful resource for planning ahead.
Let’s Celebrate Women, Past & Present
This month is about honoring the women who paved the way. and empowering the women who are planning their next chapter right now.
Because when it comes to aging well and planning ahead… knowledge isn’t just helpful. it’s power.
If you’d like to meet, Click HERE to schedule your personal financial coaching session. We can talk about what matters most in your financial journey and how to create a plan forward.
Lisa Atkinson
TFCU | Personal Financial Coach
latkinson@tucsonfcu.com
As a Personal Financial Coach, I do not provide legal or tax advice.
Tucson Federal Credit Union does not make any guarantees that this service will achieve any particular objective or outcome. For any legal advice, please seek the advice of an attorney or tax professional.



