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Many Latin American and Caribbean nations have been pioneers in developing social security programs, offering benefit programs to certain segments of their populations since the end of the last century. Today, the region's social security systems boast relatively broad coverage and offer a long list of benefits. But the region now faces economic and social challenges that are forcing policymakers to look at ways to reform social security. Insufficient funding and a lack of incentive to improve quality and efficiency have compromised many programs, and today they often do not reach those who most urgently need them. Large deficits, low contribution rates, widespread tax evasion, and increasing insolvency exacerbate the problem. Social Security Systems in Latin America proposes reforms to help save the region's social security systems. Chapters on Argentina, Brazil, Chile, and Venezuela examine program flexibility, coverage, cost, and stability. The case studies show that giving communities direct control over program resources and results increases program efficiency. Careful tailoring of programs to suit particular populations also improves the efficiency of any social assistance program.