I worked for the federal government for over 27 years, got my pension and was able to draw my SS at 57 and a half. I worked very hard while employed by the government. The day I retired I began building a 3500 sq ft house with the help of my wife and kid. It finally was finished after about two years. For what little I put into it financially I now have an asset well over $750k. Im not lazy nor sponging off the government like a welfare momma. I earned my pension and the government provided SS to me at a certain age. As far as living below the poverty line, I've taken a part time job that pays over $15/hr. So for two months at the end of the year I get to take a vacation. Plus while sitting around my house after it was finished, I got bored and wanted a part time job. Im not lazy, just taking advantage of what life has given me.