Retirement Benefits The Basics
Can I receive Social Security benefits and Unemployment Insurance benefits at the same time? Unemployment Insurance benefits are not counted under the Social Security annual earnings test and so do not affect your receipt of Social Security benefits. However, the unemployment benefit amount of an individual may be reduced by the receipt of a pension or other retirement income, including Social Security and Railroad Retirement benefits. You may wish to contact your state unemployment office for information on how your state applies the reduction. You can find contact information at the following Internet address: http://workforcesecurity.doleta.gov/map.asp What is the average monthly Social Security benefit for a retired worker? The average monthly Social Security benefit for a retired worker was about $1,164 at the beginning of 2010. This amount changes monthly based upon the total amount of all benefits paid and the total number of people receiving benefits. What are the requirements for a survivor to receive Social Security benefits?
To receive benefits, the deceased worker must have earned the required number of Social Security credits. Survivors also must meet the following requirements: A widow or widower may be able to receive full benefits at age 65 if born before 1940. (The age to receive full benefits is gradually increasing to age 67 for widows and widowers born in 1940 or later.) Reduced widow or widower benefits can be received as early as age 60. If the surviving spouse is disabled, benefits can begin as early as age 50. For more information on widows, widowers and other survivors, visit Widows, Widowers & Other Survivors. A widow or widower can receive benefits at any age if she or he takes care of the deceased worker's child who is entitled to a child's benefit and younger than age 16 or disabled. A deceased worker's unmarried children who are younger than age 18 (or up to age 19 if they are attending elementary or secondary school full time) also can receive benefits. Children can get benefits at any age if they were disabled before age 22 and remain disabled. A deceased worker's dependent parents can receive benefits if they are age 62 or older. (For parents to qualify as dependents, the deceased worker would have had to provide at least one-half of their support.) A deceased worker's former wife or husband who is age 60 or older (as early as age 50 if disabled) can get benefits if the marriage lasted at least 10 years. A former spouse, however, does not have to meet the age or length-of-marriage rule if she or he is caring for their natural or legally adopted child who is younger than age 16 or who is disabled and also entitled based on the deceased worker's work. The child must be the deceased worker's former spouse's natural or legally adopted child. For more information on survivors benefits, see our publication "Survivors Benefits". Can I receive Social Security benefits and Unemployment Insurance benefits at the same time? Unemployment Insurance benefits are not counted under the Social Security annual earnings test and so do not affect your receipt of Social Security benefits. However, the unemployment benefit amount of an individual may be reduced by the receipt of a pension or other retirement income, including Social Security and Railroad Retirement benefits. You may wish to contact your state unemployment office for information on how your state applies the reduction. You can find contact information at the following Internet address: What month do retirement benefits begin?
A person who meets all requirements for entitlement can receive reduced benefits beginning with the first full month that he/she is age 62. Thus, benefits are not paid for the month a person reaches age 62 unless his or her birthday is on the first or second day of the month. (Under a common law rule, a person reaches a given age on the day before his or her birthday.) Social Security benefits are paid in the month following the month for which they are due. For example, if your 62nd birthday is July 15, your first month of entitlement is August, and you would receive your first check in September. You can file for retirement benefits online. How much can a divorced spouse receive? A man/woman who is divorced after at least 10 years of marriage keeps certain benefit rights on their former husband/wife's Social Security record. In order for him/her to get benefits, a divorced husband/wife must be at least age 62 and the former spouse must be eligible for benefits, but not necessarily receiving them. The maximum benefit is 50% of the benefit the worker would receive at full retirement age. However, benefits paid prior to full retirement age of the spouse are reduced based upon the age of the spouse at the time benefits are received. For a chart showing the reduction in benefits based on the year of birth, see "Retirement benefits and reductions by year of birth". What are the benefit amounts a spouse may be entitled to receive?
A spouse receives one-half of the retired worker's full benefit unless the spouse begins collecting benefits before full retirement age. In that case, the amount of the spouse's benefit is reduced by a percentage based on the number of months before he/she reaches full retirement age. For example, based on the full retirement age of 66, if a spouse begins collecting benefits: At 65, the benefit amount would be about 46 percent of the retired worker's full benefit; At age 64, it would be about 42 percent; At age 63, 37.5 percent; and At age 62, 35 percent. However, if a spouse is taking care of a child who is either under age 16 or disabled and receiving Social Security benefits, a spouse gets full (one-half) benefits, regardless of age. If you are eligible for both your own retirement benefit and for benefits as a spouse, we always pay your own benefit first. If your benefit as a spouse is higher than your retirement benefit, you'll receive a combination of benefits equaling the higher spouse's benefit. Can I receive Social Security benefits and SSI?
You may be able to receive SSI in addition to monthly Social Security benefits, if your Social Security benefit is low enough to qualify. Meanwhile, the amount of your SSI benefit depends on where you live. The basic SSI check is the same nationwide. Effective January 2009, the SSI payment for an eligible individual is $674 per month and $1,011 per month for an eligible couple. However, many states add money to the basic check. Generally, the more income you have, the less your SSI benefit will be. If your countable income is over the allowable limit, you cannot receive SSI benefits. Some of your income may not count as income for the SSI program, however. For example, the first $20 per month of your Social Security benefits may be excluded in determining your eligibility to SSI. Following is a list of some States that supplement the basic SSI amount with a link to more information about that State: California Hawaii Massachusetts Nevada New Jersey New York Pennsylvania Rhode Island Vermont Washington D.C. If you get SSI, you also may be able to get other help from your state or county. For example, you may be able to get Medicaid, food stamps, or some other social services. For information about all the services available in your community, call your local social services department or public welfare office.
My wife doesn't have enough work to qualify for Social Security or Medicare. Can she qualify on my record?
The question you've raised applies to husbands as well as wives. Even if he or she has never worked under Social Security, your spouse at full retirement age can receive a benefit equal to one-half of your full retirement amount. (If your spouse will receive a pension for work not covered by Social Security such as government foreign employment, the amount of his or her Social Security benefits on your record may be reduced. Take a look at the fact sheet, Government Pension Offset for more information.) Your spouse can begin collecting the benefits as early as age 62, but the amount will be permanently reduced by a percentage based on the number of months up to his or her full retirement age. Your spouse who is caring for your child who is also receiving benefits can receive the full one-half benefit amount no matter what his or her age is. Your spouse would receive these benefits until the child reaches age 16. At that time, the child's benefits continue, but your spouse's benefits stop unless he or she is old enough to receive retirement benefits (age 62 or older) or survivor benefits as a widow or widower (age 60). If your spouse has also worked under Social Security--If your spouse is eligible for retirement benefits on his or her own record, we will always pay that amount first. But if the spouse benefit on your record is a higher amount, he or she will get a combination of benefits that equals that higher amount. It doesn't matter if your spouse starts getting benefits before, after, or at the same time you do--we will check both records to make sure that your spouse gets the higher amount whenever he or she becomes entitled to it. NOTE: A spouse cannot begin receiving benefits until the number holder is receiving benefits.
What are the benefit amounts a husband or wife may be entitled to receive? A spouse receives one-half of the retired worker's full benefit unless the spouse begins collecting benefits before full retirement age. In that case, the amount of the spouse's benefit is permanently reduced by a percentage based on the number of months before he/she reaches full retirement age. For example, based on the full retirement age of 66, if a spouse begins collecting benefits: At 65, the benefit amount would be about 46 percent of the retired worker's full benefit; At age 64, it would be about 42 percent; At age 63, 37.5 percent; and At age 62, 35 percent. However, if a spouse is taking care of a child who is either under age 16 or disabled and receiving Social Security benefits, a spouse gets full (one-half) benefits, regardless of age. If you are eligible for both your own retirement benefit and for benefits as a spouse, we always pay your own benefit first. If your benefit as a spouse is higher than your retirement benefit, you'll receive a combination of benefits equaling the higher spouse's benefit. What is Full Retirement Age? Full-retirement age has been 65 for many years. However, beginning with people born in 1938 or later, that age will gradually increase until it reaches 67 for people born after 1959. The following chart shows the steps in which the age will increase. Year of Birth Full Retirement Age 1937 or earlier 65 1938 65 and 2 months 1939 65 and 4 months 1940 65 and 6 months 1941 65 and 8 months 1942 65 and 10 months 1943-1954 66 1955 66 and 2 months 1956 66 and 4 months 1957 66 and 6 months 1958 66 and 8 months 1959 66 and 10 months 1960 and later 67 Note: Persons born on January 1 of any year should refer to the full retirement age for the previous year. For example: If you were born January 1, 1939, we consider your year of birth to be 1938 and so will reach full retirement age at 65 and 2 months. Even though the full retirement age has increased, the minimum age at which you can receive benefits remains age 62. How Do I Apply? You can apply for benefits by calling 1-800-772-1213 and making an appointment to file an application with your local Social Security office. You can find your local office at the same phone number, or by checking our Field Office Locator. What is the maximum Social Security retirement benefit? The maximum benefit depends on the age at which a worker chooses to retire. The amount for 2009 for a person retiring at full retirement age (66) is $2,323. This is based on earnings at the maximum taxable amount for every year after age 21. You can see the maximum amount of taxable earnings for each year at Contribution and Benefit Base. If a husband and wife retire, each receives his or her own benefit amount. Social Security imposes no "marriage penalty" when two members of a couple are each entitled on their own earnings record.
If you choose to receive a reduced benefit before full retirement age on your own record, you are not entitled to the full spouse's benefit rate upon reaching full retirement age, and a reduced benefit rate is payable for as long as you remain entitled to spouse's benefits. When you apply for reduced retirement benefits, we will check to see if you are eligible for both your own retirement benefits and for benefits as a spouse. If you are eligible for both, we always pay your own benefits first. If you are due additional benefits, you will get a combination of benefits equaling the higher spouse's benefit. If you are not eligible for both because your spouse is not yet entitled, but you are due a higher amount when he or she starts receiving Social Security benefits, then the higher spouse's benefit is payable to you when your spouse applies for retirement benefits. Remember, you cannot receive spouse's benefits until your spouse files for retirement. You can file for retirement benefits online at
My wife doesn't have enough work to qualify for Social Security or Medicare. Can she qualify on my record? The question you've raised applies to husbands as well as wives. Even if he or she has never worked under Social Security, your spouse at full retirement age can receive a benefit equal to one-half of your full retirement amount. (If your spouse will receive a pension for work not covered by Social Security such as government foreign employment, the amount of his or her Social Security benefits on your record may be reduced. Take a look at the fact sheet, Government Pension Offset for more information.) Your spouse can begin collecting the benefits as early as age 62, but the amount will be permanently reduced by a percentage based on the number of months up to his or her full retirement age. Your spouse who is caring for your child who is also receiving benefits can receive the full one-half benefit amount no matter what his or her age is. Your spouse would receive these benefits until the child reaches age 16. At that time, the child's benefits continue, but your spouse's benefits stop unless he or she is old enough to receive retirement benefits (age 62 or older) or survivor benefits as a widow or widower (age 60). If your spouse has also worked under Social Security--If your spouse is eligible for retirement benefits on his or her own record, we will always pay that amount first. But if the spouse benefit on your record is a higher amount, he or she will get a combination of benefits that equals that higher amount. It doesn't matter if your spouse starts getting benefits before, after, or at the same time you do--we will check both records to make sure that your spouse gets the higher amount whenever he or she becomes entitled to it. NOTE: A spouse cannot begin receiving benefits until the number holder is receiving benefits. Can I receive Social Security benefits and SSI? You may be able to receive SSI in addition to monthly Social Security benefits, if your Social Security benefit is low enough to qualify. Meanwhile, the amount of your SSI benefit depends on where you live. The basic SSI check is the same nationwide. Effective January 2009, the SSI payment for an eligible individual is $674 per month and $1,011 per month for an eligible couple. However, many states add money to the basic check. Generally, the more income you have, the less your SSI benefit will be. If your countable income is over the allowable limit, you cannot receive SSI benefits. Some of your income may not count as income for the SSI program, however. For example, the first $20 per month of your Social Security benefits may be excluded in determining your eligibility to SSI. Following is a list of some States that supplement the basic SSI amount with a link to more information about that State: * California * Hawaii * Massachusetts * Nevada * New Jersey * New York * Pennsylvania * Rhode Island * Vermont * Washington D.C. If you get SSI, you also may be able to get other help from your state or county. For example, you may be able to get Medicaid, food stamps, or some other social services. For information about all the services available in your community, call your local social services department or public welfare office. For complete information on the eligibility requirements for SSI, you should read Supplemental Security Income. How does a divorced spouse qualify for benefits? A person can receive benefits as a divorced spouse on a former spouse’s Social Security record if he or she: * was married to the former spouse for at least 10 years; * is at least age 62 years old; * is unmarried; * is not entitled to a higher Social Security benefit on his or her own record. In addition, the former spouse must be entitled to receive his or her own retirement or disability benefit. If the former spouse is eligible for a benefit, but has not yet applied for it, the divorced spouse can still receive a benefit if he or she meets the eligibility requirements above and has been divorced from the former spouse for at least two years. Generally, benefits cannot continue to be paid if the divorced spouse remarries someone other than the former spouse, unless the latter marriage ends (whether by death, divorce, or annulment), or the marriage is to a person entitled to certain types of Social Security auxiliary or survivor's benefits. A person can receive benefits as a surviving divorced spouse on the Social Security record of a former spouse who died fully insured, if he or she: * is at least age 60, or age 50 and disabled; * was married to the former spouse for at least 10 years; and * is not entitled to a higher Social Security benefit on his or her own record. If the surviving divorced spouse age 60 or over applying for benefits remarried after age 60, or after age 50 and at the time of remarriage was entitled to disability benefits, the marriage is disregarded. If a person is already entitled to benefits as an aged or disabled surviving divorced spouse and remarries, benefits continue regardless of the person's age at the time of remarriage. The benefits paid to a divorced spouse or a surviving divorced spouse will not affect the benefit amount paid to other family members who receive benefits on the same record. If you would like to receive an estimate of benefits you may receive as a divorced spouse or a surviving divorced spouse, you may contact our representatives at our toll-free number, 1-800-772-1213. They may be able to provide you with this information over the telephone. If you prefer, you may visit one of our offices. You can get the address and directions to your nearest office from the Social Security Office Locator that is available on the Internet. What are the requirements for a survivor to receive Social Security benefits? In order to receive survivors benefits, the deceased worker must have earned the required number of Social Security credits and survivors must meet the following requirements: * A widow or widower may be able to receive full benefits at age 65 if born before 1940. (The age to receive full benefits is gradually increasing to age 67 for widows and widowers born in 1940 or later.) Reduced widow or widower benefits can be received as early as age 60. If the surviving spouse is disabled, benefits can begin as early as age 50. For more information on widows, widowers and other survivors, visit Widows, Widowers & Other Survivors. * A widow or widower can receive benefits at any age if she or he takes care of the deceased worker's child who is entitled to a child's benefit and is younger than age 16 or disabled. * A deceased worker's unmarried children who are younger than age 18 (or up to age 19 if they are attending elementary or secondary school full time) also can receive benefits. Children can get benefits at any age if they were disabled before age 22 and remain disabled. Under certain circumstances, benefits also can be paid to stepchildren, grandchildren or adopted children. * A deceased worker's dependent parents can receive benefits if they are age 62 or older. (For parents to qualify as dependents, the deceased worker would have had to provide at least one-half of their support.) * A deceased worker's former wife or husband who is age 60 or older (as early as age 50 if disabled) can get benefits if the marriage lasted at least 10 years. A former spouse, however, does not have to meet the age or length-of-marriage rule if he or she is caring for his/her child who is younger than age 16 or who is disabled and also entitled based on the deceased worker's work. The child must be the deceased worker's former spouse's natural or legally adopted child. For more information on survivors benefits, see our publication "Survivors Benefits". Can I receive reduced retirement benefits at age 62 under my record then at full retirement age receive full spouse's benefits? If you choose to receive a reduced benefit before full retirement age on your own record, you are not entitled to the full spouse's benefit rate upon reaching full retirement age, and a reduced benefit rate is payable for as long as you remain entitled to spouse's benefits. When you apply for reduced retirement benefits, we will check to see if you are eligible for both your own retirement benefits and for benefits as a spouse. If you are eligible for both, we always pay your own benefits first. If you are due additional benefits, you will get a combination of benefits equaling the higher spouse's benefit. If you are not eligible for both because your spouse is not yet entitled, but you are due a higher amount when he or she starts receiving Social Security benefits, then the higher spouse's benefit is payable to you when your spouse applies for retirement benefits. Remember, you cannot receive spouse's benefits until your spouse files for retirement. What is the maximum Social Security retirement benefit? The maximum benefit depends on the age at which a worker chooses to retire. The amount for 2009 for a person retiring at full retirement age (66) is $2,323. This is based on earnings at the maximum taxable amount for every year after age 21. If a husband and wife retire, each receives his or her own benefit amount. Social Security imposes no "marriage penalty" when two members of a couple are each entitled on their own earnings record. Can I apply for Social Security benefits on the Internet?
Yes. You can apply for Social Security Retirement, Spouses or Disability Benefits online. Retirement and Spouses Benefits The online retirement application is easy to use. You can complete it at your own convenience in as little as 15 minutes. To help you prepare to apply for retirement or spouse's benefits, you may want to first visit our Retirement Planners. You may also want to visit our online Retirement Estimator before you apply to get an estimate of what your benefit would be. Disability Benefits If you plan to apply for disability benefits, you will find all the forms and information you need online. Reviewing and collecting the information shown in the Disability Starter Kit will help prepare you for your disability interview or help you to complete your online Disability Report. The Disability Report form asks for information about your conditions or impairments that prevent you from working. At this time, you cannot apply for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits online. However, if you are applying for SSI disability for an adult or a child, you can complete the Disability Report online. You can also view the fact sheet and checklist in the Disability Starter Kit to see what information you will need and the kinds of questions we will ask when you have your disability interview in your local Social Security office or over the phone. If you wish to file for SSI benefits, contact Social Security immediately so that you do not lose any potential benefits. You can call toll free 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) or visit your local Social Security office.
Do I have to pay income tax on my Social Security benefits?
Are Social Security disability benefits taxable? Some people who get Social Security will have to pay taxes on their benefits. Less than one-third of our current beneficiaries pay taxes on their benefits. You will have to pay federal taxes on your benefits if you file a federal tax return as an "individual" and your total income is more than $25,000. If you file a joint return, you will have to pay taxes if you and your spouse have a total income that is more than $32,000. For more information, call the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) toll-free at 1-800-829-3676 and ask for IRS Publication Number 915, Social Security and Equivalent Railroad Retirement Benefits. People who are deaf or hard of hearing may call the IRS toll-free number, 1-800-829-4059. If you wish to have federal taxes withheld from your check, see Can I have federal taxes withheld from my Social Security check? The Social Security Administration has no authority to withhold state or local taxes from your benefit. Many states and local authorities do not tax Social Security benefits. You should contact your state or local taxing authority for more information.
What do the letters after a Social Security or Medicare number mean?
The codes following a Social Security number indicate the type of benefits you are entitled to. The Social Security number followed by one of these codes is often referred to as a claim number and they are only assigned once you apply for benefits. These letter codes may appear on correspondence that you receive from Social Security or on your Medicare card. They will never appear on a Social Security number card. For example, if the Social Security of the wage earner number is 123-45-6789, then once you apply for retirement benefits, your claim number is 123-45-6789A. This number will also be used as your Medicare claim number, once you are eligible for Medicare. Code
Identification A Primary claimant (wage earner) B Aged wife, age 62 or over B1 Aged husband, age 62 or over B2 Young wife, with a child in her care B3 Aged wife, age 62 or over, second claimant B5 Young wife, with a child in her care, second claimant B6 Divorced wife, age 62 or over BY Young husband, with a child in his care C1-C9 Child - Includes minor, student or disabled child D Aged Widow, age 60 or over D1 Aged widower, age 60 or over D2 Aged widow (2nd claimant) D3 Aged widower (2nd claimant) D6 Surviving Divorced Wife E Widowed Mother E1 Surviving Divorced Mother E4 Widowed Father E5 Surviving Divorced Father F1 Father F2 Mother F3 Stepfather F4 Stepmother F5 Adopting Father F6 Adopting MotherHA Disabled claimant (wage earner) HB Aged wife of disabled claimant, age 62 or over M Uninsured – Premium Health Insurance Benefits (Part A) M1 Uninsured - Qualified for but refused Health Insurance Benefits (Part A) T Uninsured - Entitled to HIB (Part A) under deemed or renal provisions; or Fully insured who have elected entitlement only to HIB TA Medicare Qualified Government Employment (MQGE)TB MQGE aged spouse W Disabled Widow W1 Disabled Widower W6 Disabled Surviving Divorced Wife NOTE: This list is not complete, but shows the most common beneficiary codes. What are the tax, benefit and earning (COLA) amounts for 2009?
A Social Security cost-of-living (COLA) increase of 5.8% for 2009 was announced on October 16, 2008. Following are the changes effective January 1, 2009: 2009 SOCIAL SECURITY CHANGES Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA): Based on the increase in the Consumer Price Index (CPI-W) from the third quarter of 2007 through the third quarter of 2008, Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) beneficiaries will receive a 5.8 percent COLA for 2009. Other important 2009 Social Security information is as follows: Tax rate--employee-2008 7.65%, 2009 7.65% Self-Employed--2008 15.30, 2009 15.30
I'm thinking about getting disability protection from a private company. If I become disabled and have a private policy, would it reduce my Social Security disability benefit? No. Your eligibility for Social Security disability benefits is not affected by any private insurance you may have. But, you may be interested to know that worker's compensation and certain other public disability payments may affect your Social Security benefit. I applied for Social Security disability benefits and received a letter that says I am medically disabled but that SSA will review the non-medical part of my claim. What are non-medical requirements? To receive Social Security Disability benefits a person must meet Social Security's definition of disability and meet certain non-medical eligibility requirements. Examples of non-medical eligibility requirements include proof of age, employment, marital status, or Social Security coverage information. State agencies (usually called Disability Determination Services or DDSs) make the medical determination on a claim. Local Social Security offices are responsible for verifying non-medical eligibility requirements. If I work and I am using a Ticket to Work, will you still review my medical condition? SSA does not review the medical condition of a person receiving disability benefits if that person is using a Ticket to Work. Starting January 1, 2002, Social Security disability beneficiaries who have been entitled to benefits for at least 24 months will not be asked to go through a disability review because of the work they are doing. I understand that to get Social Security disability benefits, my disability must be expected to last at least a year. Does this mean that I must wait a year after becoming disabled before I can receive benefits?
No. You do not have to wait a year after becoming disabled to receive disability benefits. However, you should apply for disability benefits as soon as you become disabled. It can take a long time to process an application for disability benefits (three to five months). If your application is approved, your first Social Security disability benefits will be paid for the sixth full month after the date your disability began. For example, if the state agency decides your disability began on January 15, your first disability benefit will be paid for the month of July. However, Social Security benefits are paid in the month following the month for which they are due, so you will receive your July benefit in August. For more information about Social Security disability benefits, refer to Disability Benefits(Publication No. 05-10029) at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs.
What is a disability trial work period? The trial work period allows Social Security disability beneficiaries to test their ability to work for at least nine months. During the trial work period, you can receive full benefits no matter how much you earn, as long as you continue to have a disabling impairment and you report your work activity. The trial work period continues until you have completed nine trial work months within a 60-month period. In 2009, any month in which you earn $700 or more counts as one of the trial work months. For 2008, this amount is $670. After your trial work period ends, we then look at your earnings to determine whether you are working at a level we consider substantial. If you are, your cash benefits will stop. In 2009, average monthly earnings of $980 are considered substantial. For 2008, the amount is $940. There are different limits for people disabled because of blindness. If you continue to work, there are other rules that allow you to receive benefits. For 36 months following completion of the trial work period, you can receive your full Social Security disability benefit for any month in which your earnings fall below the "substantial" level. You can find more information about available work incentives in our leaflet, Working While Disabled-How We Can Help (SSA Publication No. 05-10095). How many credits are required to be eligible for disability? The number of work credits you need to qualify for disability benefits depends on your age when you become disabled. Also, the credits must have been earned within a certain time period. Generally, you need 20 credits earned in the last 10 years, ending with the year you become disabled. Younger workers may qualify with fewer credits. For example: A worker who becomes disabled before age 24 needs to have earned six credits in the three-year period ending when disability starts. A worker who becomes disabled between age 24 to age 31 needs to have credits for half the time between age 21 and the time disability starts. If disability starts at age 27, the worker would need credit for three years of work (12 credits)) out of the past six years between age 21 and age 27. I was told Social Security will give Supplemental Security Income to children who were born prematurely. Is this true? Social Security does provide SSI disability benefits to certain low birth weight infants, whether or not they are premature. A child who weighs less than 1200 grams (about 2 pounds, 10 ounces) at birth can qualify for SSI on the basis of low birth weight, if otherwise eligible. A child who weighs between 1200 and 2000 grams at birth (about 4 pounds 6 ounces) AND who is considered small for his or her gestational age may also qualify. For this second category of low birth weight infants, the following chart shows the gestational age at birth and corresponding birth weight that satisfies our "small for gestational age" criterion. Gestational Age Weight at Birth(in weeks) 37-40 Less than 2000 grams (4 pounds, 6 ounces) 36 1875 grams or less (4 pounds, 2 ounces) 35 1700 grams or less (3 pounds, 12 ounces)34 1500 grams or less (3 pounds, 5 ounces) 33 1325 grams or less (2 pounds, 15 ounces) Even if a child who was born prematurely does not fall into one of the "low birth weight" categories, he or she may still qualify for SSI if the evidence in his or her record shows that he or she meets the definition of disability for children for another reason. Go to www.socialsecurity.gov/applyfordisability, call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) or contact your local office for more information. Can a person with a terminal illness qualify for disability benefits?
Yes. The requirements for disability benefits are the same for a person with a potentially terminal illness as for a person with a non-terminal illness. We make every effort to identify a case involving a person with a potentially terminal illness as early in the claims process as possible and we have special procedures we follow to process the claim as quickly as possible. We may become aware of the potentially terminal illness through statements from the person claiming disability, or from the person’s friend, family member, doctor or other medical source. Or there may be an allegation or diagnosis of AIDS, or indications that the person is registered in a Medicare-designated hospice or is receiving hospice care. Regardless of the potentially terminal illness or how we learn about it, we tightly control the case throughout the claims process and make special efforts to assist the person in providing necessary evidence. I had a serious back injury four years ago and received disability benefits for about 18 months until I could return to work. Unfortunately, my back problems have returned and I may not be able to continue working much longer. When I first applied for benefits, I waited several months before I received my first check. If I reapply for benefits, will my wait be as long as it was the first time?
If you become disabled a second time within five years after your previous disability benefits stopped, there is no waiting period before benefits start. If your claim is approved, you can receive benefits for the first full month of disability. It can take from three to five months to get a decision on a disability claim, depending on how long it takes to obtain your medical records and any other information we need to decide whether you are disabled. You can help shorten this time by providing as much information as possible when you apply for benefits. For more information about applying for benefits, we suggest that you review our booklet,Disability (SSA Publication No.05-10029) or you can file a claim online. What is a disability "freeze"?A "disability freeze," also called a "period of disability," refers to a period of time you were found to be disabled or blind by Social Security. During the period of disability you may not have any earnings, or your earnings may be very low due to your disability or blindness. You can have more than one period of disability on your record. In general, we do not count your period(s) of disability when we determine whether you have enough work credits to get Social Security disability benefits. If you are blind or disabled, you can apply to have a period of disability established on your earnings record. Most workers who have a period of disability may also qualify for monthly disability insurance benefits. Even if you do not get disability insurance benefits for your period of disability, a "disability freeze" on your record may help you and your family get future Social Security benefits based on your disability or retirement, or as survivors on your account. A "period of disability" (i.e., a "disability freeze") may also affect how we compute the monthly benefits amounts payable to you and your family. Usually, if we take your period of disability into account when determining monthly benefit amounts, the benefit amount will be higher. We will ignore your "period(s) of disability" if it is to your advantage to do so. This can happen when you or your family may be entitled or get a higher monthly benefit amount by ignoring your period of disability. If you believe that you might qualify for a disability freeze, call Social Security's toll-free number, 1-800-772-1213 or TTY 1-800-325-0778, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. How do workers' compensation payments affect my disability benefits?
Disability payment you receive from workers' compensation and/or another public disability payment may reduce your and your family's Social Security benefits. Your Social Security disability benefit will be reduced so that the combined amount of the Social Security benefit you and your family receive plus your workers' compensation payment and/or public disability payment does not exceed 80 percent of your average current earnings. (Note that the unreduced benefit amount is counted for income tax purposes.) A workers' compensation payment is one that is made to a worker because of a job-related injury or illness. It may be paid by federal or state workers' compensation agencies, employers, or insurance companies on behalf of employers. Public disability (PDB) payments that may affect your Social Security benefit are those paid under a federal, state, or local government law or plan. A PDB is not usually based on a work-related disability. They differ from workers' compensation because the disability that the worker has may not be job-related. Examples are civil service disability benefits, state temporary disability benefits, and state or local government retirement benefits which are based on disability. For more information, see How Worker's Compensation And Other Disability Payments May Affect Your Benefits (SSA Publication No. 05-10018). Does Social Security recognize common law marriage for the purpose of paying survivors and spouse's benefits?
Social Security follows the laws of the state where the worker was residing at the time of death or the place where the worker is residing when the spouse applies for benefits. In order for a common law marriage to be valid, it must have been contracted in a state where common-law marriages are recognized. Many states do not honor common-law marriages, so you should check local laws. However, most states (even those in which a man and woman could not enter into a valid common-law marriage) will generally recognize a common-law marriage validly entered into in another state. Again, check local laws. What is the Ticket to Work Program?
The Ticket to Work is an innovative program from the Social Security Administration that: Increases beneficiary choice in obtaining rehabilitation and vocational services to help them go to work and attain their employment goals; Removes barriers that require people with disabilities to choose between health care coverage and work; and Assures that more Americans with disabilities have the opportunity to participate in the workforce and lessen their dependence on public benefits. The Ticket Program is free and voluntary and will offer SSA beneficiaries with disabilities/blindness a greater choice in obtaining the services they need to help them go to work. I currently receive Social Security disability benefits. My disabilities have worsened and I have other health problems. Can my monthly benefit amount be increased?
No. Your Social Security disability benefit is based on the amount of your lifetime earnings before your disability began and not the degree or severity of your disability. What is the earliest age that I can receive Disability benefits?
There is no minimum age as long as you meet the very strict social security definition of disability . But to qualify for disability benefits you must have worked long and recently enough under Social Security to earn the required number of work credits. You can earn up to a maximum of four work credits each year. The amount of earnings required for a credit increases each year as general wage levels rise. The number of work credits you need for disability benefits depends on your age when you become disabled. The rules for how much work you need to qualify for disability benefits are as follows: Before age 24--You may qualify if you have 6 credits earned in the 3-year period ending when your disability starts. Age 24 to 31--You may qualify if you have credit for working half the time between age 21 and the time you become disabled. For example, if you become disabled at age 27, you would need credit for 3 years of work (12 credits) out of the past 6 years (between ages 21 and 27). Age 31 or older--See chart by visiting the Social Security Administration online Do I automatically get Medicare benefits if I'm eligible for disability benefits? We will automatically enroll you in Medicare after you get disability benefits for two years. We start counting the 24 months from the month you were entitled to receive Disability, not the month when you received your first check. People with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig's disease) get Medicare beginning with the month they become entitled to disability benefits. Medicare has two parts - hospital insurance and medical insurance. Hospital insurance helps pay hospital bills and some follow-up care. The taxes you paid while you were working financed this coverage, so it's premium free. The other part of Medicare, medical insurance, helps pay doctors' bills and other services. You will pay a monthly premium for this coverage if you want it. If I go back to work, will I automatically lose my disability benefits?
No, the Social Security Administration has several work incentives that may help you to return to work without losing your benefits. For more information about Social Security's work incentives you should: - call our toll-free number at 1-800-772-1213; - contact your local Social Security office; or - visit our special "Worksite". For more information on SSA's work incentive rules, see also the Red Book on Work Incentives. Can I receive Social Security benefits and SSI?
You may be able to receive SSI in addition to monthly Social Security benefits, if your Social Security benefit is low enough to qualify. Meanwhile, the amount of your SSI benefit depends on where you live. The basic SSI check is the same nationwide. Effective January 2009, the SSI payment for an eligible individual is $674 per month and $1,011 per month for an eligible couple. However, many states add money to the basic check. Generally, the more income you have, the less your SSI benefit will be. If your countable income is over the allowable limit, you cannot receive SSI benefits. Some of your income may not count as income for the SSI program, however. For example, the first $20 per month of your Social Security benefits may be excluded in determining your eligibility to SSI. Following is a list of some States that supplement the basic SSI amount. California Hawaii Massachusetts Nevada New Jersey New York Pennsylvania Rhode Island Vermont Washington D.C. Does Social Security use a list of impairments to determine if I can get disability benefits?
For an adult to be considered disabled by Social Security, you must have a medical condition that prevents you from working and that is expected to last for at least one year or result in death. We use a five-step process to decide whether you are disabled. As part of that process, we check to see if you have a condition as described in the listing of impairments. If you do, we consider your medical condition to be disabling. Even if your particular medical condition is not on the list, you may still be found disabled. For more information about the disability decision process, we recommend that you read the booklet, Social Security Disability Benefits (Publication No. 05-10029). The booklet explains the requirements for receiving disability benefits and the five-step process. You also can find descriptions of the conditions that appear in our Listing of Impairments in the publication, "Disability Evaluation Under Social Security" (SSA Publication No. 64-039), also referred to as "The Blue Book." This publication is intended primarily for physicians and other health professionals.
Do disabled children qualify for benefits?
There are two Social Security disability programs that include disabled children. Under the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program, a child from birth to age 18 may receive monthly payments based on disability or blindness if: He or she has an impairment or combination of impairments that meets the definition of disability for children and the income and resources of the parents and the child are within the allowed limits. Under the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program, an adult child (a person age 18 or older) may receive monthly benefits based on disability or blindness if: He or she has an impairment or combination of impairments that meets the definition of disability for adults; and the disability began before age 22; and the adult child's parent worked long enough to be insured under Social Security and is receiving retirement or disability benefits or is deceased. Under both of these programs, the child must not be doing any "substantial" work, and must have a medical condition that has lasted or is expected either to last for at least 12 months or to result in death. You will find helpful links to the online forms and the steps you need to take to apply for childhood disability benefits at www.socialsecurity.gov/applyfordisability. At this time, you cannot complete an application for SSI childhood disability online, but you can complete the Child Disability Report Form online. You can also view the Fact Sheet and Checklist in the Child Disability Starter Kit to see what information you will need and the kinds of questions we will ask when you have your disability interview in your local Social Security office or over the phone. The Disability Report asks for information about the child's conditions or impairments. Call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) or visit your local Social Security office right away so that you do not lose potential benefits, even if you complete the Disability Report Form online. What is the difference between Social Security disability and SSI disability?
The Social Security Administration is responsible for two major programs that provide benefits based on disability: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), which is based on prior work under Social Security, and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Under SSI, payments are made on the basis of financial need. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is financed with Social Security taxes paid by workers, employers, and self-employed persons. To be eligible for a Social Security benefit, the worker must earn sufficient credits based on taxable work to be "insured" for Social Security purposes. Disability benefits are payable to blind or disabled workers, widow(er)s, or adults disabled since childhood, who are otherwise eligible. The amount of the monthly disability benefit is based on the Social Security earnings record of the insured worker. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a program financed through general revenues. SSI disability benefits are payable to adults or children who are disabled or blind, have limited income and resources, meet the living arrangement requirements, and are otherwise eligible. The monthly payment varies up to the maximum federal benefit rate, which may be supplemented by the State or decreased by countable income and resources. See Understanding Supplemental Security Income for an explanation of SSI benefit payment rates.
I am receiving Social Security disability benefits. Will my benefits be affected if I work and earn money?
We have special rules called "work incentives" that help you keep your cash benefits and Medicare while you test your ability to work. For example, there is a trial work period during which you can receive full benefits regardless of how much you earn, as long as you report your work activity and continue to have a disabling impairment. The trial work period continues until you accumulate nine months (not necessarily consecutive) in which you perform what we call "services" within a rolling 60-month period. We consider your work to be "services" if you earn more than $700 a month in 2009. For 2008, this amount was $670. After the trial work period ends, your benefits will stop for months your earnings are at a level we consider "substantial," currently $980 in 2009. For 2008, this amount was $940. Different amounts apply to people who are disabled because of blindness. The monthly substantial amount for statutorily blind individuals for 2009 is $1,640; for 2008 this amount was $1,570. For an additional 36 months after completing the trial work period, we can start your benefits again if your earnings fall below the "substantial" level and you continue to have a disabling impairment. For more information about work incentives, we recommend that you read the leaflet, Working While Disabled-How We Can Help (SSA Publication Number 05-10095). Can I apply for Social Security benefits on the Internet? Yes. You can apply for Social Security retirement, spouse's or disability benefits online. To help you prepare to apply for retirement or spouse's benefits, you may want to first visit our Retirement Planners. If you plan to apply for disability benefits, you will find all the forms and information you need online. Reviewing and collecting the information shown in the Disability Starter Kit will help prepare you for your disability interview or help you to complete your online Disability Report. The Disability Report form asks for information about your conditions or impairments that prevent you from working. At this time, you cannot apply for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits online. However, if you are applying for SSI disability for an adult or a child, you can complete the Disability Report online. You can also view the fact sheet and checklist in the Disability Starter Kit to see what information you will need and the kinds of questions we will ask when you have your disability interview in your local Social Security office or over the phone If you wish to file for SSI benefits (aged, blind or disabled), contact Social Security .immediately, so that you do not lose any potential benefits. You can call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) or visit your local Social Security office. How do I apply for disability benefits? Can I file for Disability benefits online? Yes, you can apply for disability benefits online. The Disability Starter Kit will help you get ready for your disability interview or help you complete the online application. Kits are available in English and Spanish for adults and for children under age 18. The starter kit provides information about the specific documents and the information that we will request from you. We will ask for more details during the disability interview or when you complete the online Child or Adult Disability Report Form. Each Disability Starter Kit contains a: Fact sheet that answers questions most people ask about applying for disability benefits, Checklist of documents and information we will request, and Worksheet to help you gather and organize the information you will need for your disability interview or to complete the online forms. At this time, you cannot complete an application for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) disability online. If you are filing for SSI disability, you can complete the Disability Report Form online. You can view the fact sheet and checklist in the Disability Starter Kit to see what information you will need and the kinds of questions we will ask when you have your disability interview in your local Social Security office or over the phone. If you have further questions, call our toll-free number, 1-800-772-1213 (TTY, 1-800-325-0778) between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Monday through Friday to schedule an appointment and we will help you in person or by phone. Or, you can visit your local office. How does Social Security decide if I am disabled? Disability under Social Security for an adult is based on your inability to work because of a medical condition. To be considered disabled: You must be unable to do work you did before and we decide that you cannot adjust to other work because of a medical condition. Your disability must last or be expected to last for at least one year or to result in death. Social Security pays only for total disability. No benefits are payable for partial disability or short-term disability. For adults, we use a five-step evaluation process to decide whether you are disabled under Social Security. The process considers any current work activity you are doing, and your medical condition and how it affects your ability to work. For more information, we recommend that you read the publication, Disability Benefits (SSA Publication No. 05-10029) Are Social Security disability benefits taxable? Some people who get Social Security will have to pay taxes on their benefits. Less than one-third of our current beneficiaries pay taxes on their benefits. You will have to pay federal taxes on your benefits if you file a federal tax return as an "individual" and your total income is more than $25,000. If you file a joint return, you will have to pay taxes if you and your spouse have a total income that is more than $32,000. For more information, call the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) toll-free at 1-800-829-3676 and ask for IRS Publication Number 915, Social Security and Equivalent Railroad Retirement Benefits. People who are deaf or hard of hearing may call the IRS toll-free number, 1-800-829-4059. If you wish to have federal taxes withheld from your check, see Can I have federal taxes withheld from my Social Security check? The Social Security Administration has no authority to withhold state or local taxes from your benefit. Many states and local authorities do not tax Social Security benefits. You should contact your state or local taxing authority for more information. How do I request a replacement SSA-1099, Benefit Statement for tax year 2007?
The Social Security Benefit Statements (SSA-1099 or 1042S for foreign beneficiaries) for tax year 2007 were mailed by January 31, 2008. If you did not receive your form 1099, you can request a replacement online or call 1-800-772-1213. If you need a replacement SSA-1099 for a year prior to 2007, call 1-800-772-1213
Where do I mail a completed Social Security form?
The address that you use to mail a completed form will vary by the situation. Use the following guidelines to determine the proper mailing address: 1. If a Social Security office has mailed you a form for completion, mail it back to the requesting office. They may have provided a return envelope for this purpose. 2. Certain forms have specific mail boxes that receive them and these will be designated on the form. 3. If you are mailing form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card) we have special mailing instructions at Where should I send my completed Application for a Social Security Card? 4. If none of the above are true, mail the form to your local office. To find the office address, use our Office Locator. Rather than mailing a form to Social Security consider completing the action online. For example, you may request direct deposit of your check by completing U.S. Treasury form SF-1199A and mailing it to your local office, or you can complete this application online. For a list of services that can be completed online, see What You Can Do Online. How do I request bulk orders of SSA's publications? You can send a written request for bulk orders of SSA publications to: Social Security Administration Office of Supply and Warehouse Management 239 Supply Building 6301 Security Blvd Baltimore, MD 21235 How can I get a copy of the form, Application for Help with Medicare Prescription Drug Plan Costs, SSA-1020?
If you just want to see the application form for extra help, you can view a sample at www.socialsecurity.gov/prescriptionhelp. There you also can find instruction sheets in 15 different languages to help you understand the English application. If you wish to apply for extra help with Medicare prescription drug plan costs, we recommend that you use our online application at www.socialsecurity.gov/i1020/ If you prefer not to fill out this application on the Internet, you can call our toll-free number, 1-800-772-1213 to ask for a paper application or to make an appointment to apply for extra help with Medicare prescription drug plan costs. If you are deaf or hard of hearing, call our toll-free TTY number, 1-800-325-0778. Representatives are available Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tell the representative that you want to apply for extra help with Medicare prescription drug costs.  Custom Search How can I get Form SSA-7028? Employers and other third parties (e.g., banks, military recruiters) often need to know the Social Security number assigned to an individual. Form SSA-7028 (Notification of SSN to Third Party) is used for this purpose. The form is completed by the local office where you have applied for your Social Security number and is sent to the third party. We do not have the form online as it is only used by Social Security offices and is not intended for public use. I no longer need Medicare Part B, because I am covered by other health insurance. If you wish to disenroll from Medicare Part B, you will need to submit form CMS-1763 to the Social Security Administration. The form is used to voluntarily terminate entitlement to Supplementary Medical Insurance (Part B) and Premium hospital Insurance and is owned by the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). CMS requires that a personal interview be conducted with every individual who wishes to terminate entitlement and so we do not offer form CMS-1763 on the public Internet site. The form will be completed during an in-person or phone interview so that we can ensure that the beneficiary understands the ramifications of termination. After the interview, our Social Security Administration representative is required to provide you with a letter outlining the consequences of voluntary termination and of the right to withdraw the termination request before coverage ends. Disenrolling is a serious decision; if you wish to reenroll later, you may have to pay a surcharge. Termination of Medicare Part B will be effective at the end of the month following the month in which the termination request is filed. For an interview, call our toll-free number, 1-800-772-1213 or contact your local Social Security office. How do I get copies of Social Security's publications? How do I get copies of Social Security's publications? A complete directory to all of the information pamphlets and factsheets that SSA publishes on its benefits programs including: Retirement, Disability, Medicare, Supplemental Security Income, Survivors benefits, and information about your Social Security Number are available at Social Security Benefit Publications. You may download and print our publications from your personal computer. Social Security also has another way to send public information. You can request information documents from Social Security through SSA's Fax Catalog. Documents include fact sheets about various aspects of Social Security programs and actuarial reports. If you have a touch-tone phone and access to a FAX machine, you can use our FAX Catalog. Call toll-free, 1-888-475-7000, to get an index or request copies of publications. When you call, a voice menu leads you through the steps to receive your information. When you call, you must know the FAX number where you will receive the information. This information is available at Fax Catalog. If you want large quantities of SSA publications, you can send a written request to: Social Security Administration Office of Supply and Warehouse Management 239 Supply Building 6301 Security Blvd Baltimore, MD 21235 The phone number for the Public Information Distribution Center is (410) 965-2039. You can also reach them via fax at (410) 965-2037 or email them at OPLM.OSWM.RPT.Orders@ssa.gov. You may also call our toll-free number, 1-800-772-1213 and request any pamphlets you desire. Our representatives will be glad to assist you. People who are deaf or hard of hearing may call our toll-free TTY number, 1-800-325-0778, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. on Monday through Friday. How do I find Form SS-4, Application for Employer Identification Number? How do I find Form SS-4, Application for Employer Identification Number? You can obtain Form SS-4, Application for Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The form is available from the IRS at http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/fss4.pdf . Instructions on completion and mailing of the form can be found at http://www.irs.gov/instructions/iss4/ch01.html. The IRS also allows you to complete an online request for an EIN. See http://www.irs.gov/businesses/small/article/0,,id=102767,00.html to apply for an EIN. How do I get an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number? The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) assigns Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITINs), not the Social Security Administration. The IRS assigns ITINs to certain nonresident and resident aliens, their spouses and dependents. You can use an ITIN for Federal tax purposes only. You cannot use it to work. Only non-citizens who are ineligible for a Social Security number can get an ITIN. If you apply for a Social Security number and we cannot currently assign one to you, we will send you a letter of explanation in the mail. If we cannot assign you a Social Security number and you need an ITIN, you will need to file Form W-7 with the IRS. Does SSA have a form to sign up for direct deposit of benefits?
No. SSA does not have a form for direct deposit of benefits. The easiest way for beneficiaries to start or change direct deposit is to either use our online application at http://www.socialsecurity.gov/pdd/, call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 or contact their financial institution. SSA can also use Treasury Department form, SF-1199a to start direct deposit, available in Portable Document Format (PDF) at http://www.socialsecurity.gov/deposit/1199a.pdf. The completed form can be mailed to your local Social Security office which you can locate at http://www.socialsecurity.gov/locator/ How do I find Form 8822, IRS Change of Address form? Form 8822, Change of Address is an Internal Revenue Service form used to change your address with the IRS, not Social Security. You can find the form on the IRS website at http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f8822.pdf NOTE: You will need the Adobe Reader software to read this file. Go to http://www.adobe.com/products/reader/ to download the program if you do not already have it.The Social Security Administration does not have a change of address form. To change your address with Social Security: 1. If you receive cash benefits, have applied for benefits, or are entitled to Medicare: Change your address or phone number online. Call our toll-free number, 1-800-772-1213. Our representatives will be glad to take the information and make any necessary changes in our records. 1. Notify your local field office. You can get addresses and directions to our field offices from the Social Security Office Locator which is available on the Internet at: http://www.socialsecurity.gov/locator/. 2. If you are not currently entitled to Social Security or Medicare benefits, and do not have an application pending - Take no action. Social Security only maintains address information on current beneficiaries and people who have applications for benefits pending. I have applied for a job that requires me to provide a complete history of all employers for which I have worked. How can I obtain this report? Custom Search Under most circumstances there is a charge involved for detailed earnings information. Considerable clerical handling is required to prepare this information. Unlike the earnings information used to compute Social Security benefits, which is electronically available, detailed earnings information must be extracted from microfilmed records through a tedious, labor-intensive operation requiring visual examination of each record before a statement can be produced and released. We do not charge for providing more detailed earnings information for correcting a Social Security record or for establishing entitlement to Social Security benefits. You should use this form if you need: 1. "Certified/Non-Certified Detailed Earnings Information" which would include periods of employment or self-employment and the names and addresses of employers, or 2. "Certified Yearly Totals of Earnings" which would include total earnings for each year but would not include the names and addresses of employers. You may obtain Form SSA-7050-F4, which also includes the fee schedule, from our website at: http://www.socialsecurity.gov/online/ssa-7050.pdf To read and print this form on a personal computer, you will need a copy of the Adobe Reader software. This software is available free of charge from Adobe's Internet server at: http://www.adobe.com/products/reader/ The Social Security Administration does not charge a fee for providing individuals with a statement showing yearly totals of earnings, the amount of Social Security taxes paid, an estimate of future benefits, and the number of credits you have under the Social Security program. Normally, this is all the information that is needed to determine Social Security benefits. You may obtain a Social Security Statement at: http://www.socialsecurity.gov/statement/ You should allow 4 months from the date that you submit form SSA-7050 for a response. How do I find Social Security forms online? Social Security has more than 70 Common Social Security Forms for download on our website. Find your form using the Form Search Tool:Search:For: Please Note: You will need the Adobe Reader software to view these forms. You may obtain this software from the Adobe website. If you wish to submit the form to SSA, it must be printed on 8 1/2" x 11" white paper. You must print the form with blue or black ink to be acceptable to SSA. NOTE: If you live abroad, and cannot obtain 8.5 x 11 paper, the use of A4 size paper (8.25 x 11.7) is the only acceptable alternative. In general, upon completion, Social Security forms are mailed to your local office. PLEASE NOTE: We often get requests for Form 8822. This is an Internal Revenue Service change of address form and CANNOT be used to change your address with Social Security. Please contact the IRS for the form. For other government forms, see Forms.Gov. Where do I find an Application for a Social Security Card (Form SS-5)? Form SS-5 is the correct Social Security form to use for applying for a new card, replacing or correcting an old card, or for changing the name on your current card. There is no charge to obtain a Form SS-5. You can find form SS-5, Social Security Number Application. This page gives you instructions on obtaining the form, completion, and mailing. You can also fiind form SS-5 in Spanish. If you are living overseas, we have a special version of form SS-5. SSA forms must be printed on 8 1/2" x 11" white paper. You must print the form with blue or black ink to be acceptable to SSA. NOTE: if you live abroad, and cannot obtain 8.5 x 11 paper, the use of A4 size paper (8.25 x 11.7) is the only acceptable alternative. If you are unable to download the form, you may call 1-800-772-1213 and request that the form be mailed to you. A cautionary note: Some private entities offer online facsimiles of the SSA Form SS-5 for public use. These facsimiles may not be acceptable for SSA purposes if they do not match the SSA form exactly. That is, the application portion of the facsimile Form SS-5 must be printed in total on one, one-sided page and must be formatted and collect information exactly as shown on the SSA Form SS-5. You will be asked to complete a Form SS-5 if the facsimile application does not meet SSA’s criteria. Social Security Checks Again Arriving Early in Gulf Coast States as Hurricane Ike Approaches News Release Social Security Checks Again Arriving Early in Gulf Coast States as Hurricane Ike Approaches Michael J. Astrue, Commissioner of Social Security, announced that benefit checks are being delivered to Gulf Coast residents on Tuesday, before the anticipated arrival of Hurricane Ike and one day ahead of the regular payment date. More than 40,000 people in Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Florida will receive their Social Security checks September 9th, rather than on Wednesday, the regularly scheduled payment day. At the end of August, the Social Security Administration took similar action to arrange for early delivery of nearly 400,000 checks ahead of Hurricane Gustav. "Hurricane Ike, the second major storm to threaten the area in the last two weeks, has led Social Security to take the critically important step of sending early payments to people all along the Gulf Coast," said Commissioner Astrue. "People in these states who may not receive their checks early should not ignore evacuation instructions simply to wait for their payments. Anyone who does not receive a regularly scheduled payment from Social Security as a result of the hurricane can go to any open Social Security office and request an immediate payment. To find the nearest open Social Security office, call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). In the future, beneficiaries should be mindful that Direct Deposit is a more secure and convenient way to receive payments, particularly when natural disasters strike." Social Security has worked closely with the U.S. Postal Service and the Department of the Treasury to make the early delivery of checks possible. People living in areas with the following first three digits in their zip codes will receive early delivery: Alabama 364-366 Florida 323-325 Louisiana 700-714 Mississippi 393-395 Texas 770-779, 781 and 783-785 The Department of the Treasury, through the Federal Reserve, has encouraged financial institutions in the Gulf Coast states to honor the paper checks as well as consider making Direct Deposit payments available as early as Tuesday, September 9th. The federal government has requested this for people in the affected states, but it is up to individual banks to choose to make these Direct Deposit funds available early. Listen to or download Commissioner Astrue discussing early Social Security payments to people along the Gulf Coast 1
# # # SSA logo: link to Social Security Online home Social Security's Hurricane Information Updated: September 14, 2008 5:41 PM Emergency Payments If you do not receive your regularly scheduled payment from Social Security as a result of a hurricane, you can go to any open Social Security office and request an immediate payment. To find the nearest open Social Security office, call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778).
Get email updates when this information changes. Office Closings As a result of Hurricane Ike, the following offices will be closed on Monday, September 15, 2008. Texas: Angleton Beaumont Conroe Galveston Houston Downtown Houston Northeast Houston Northwest Houston Southeast Houston Southwest Pasadena Port Arthur If Your Local Office is Closed If your local Social Security office is closed, be aware that many services are available online. You can also do business with Social Security over the phone by calling 1-800-772-1213 (TTY number, 1-800-325-0778). Direct Deposit Information The threat of a hurricane is one more reason to sign up for Direct Deposit of your monthly benefits. With Direct Deposit, your money is safe in in your bank, savings and loan or credit union account no matter what happens to interrupt mail service. For more information, or to sign up, visit our Direct Deposit site. Is the representative required to notify SSA If the representative knows that the claimant or beneficiary has filed for bankruptcy and that representative is due a fee, the representative should notify SSA about the claimant's or beneficiary's bankruptcy filing. When SSA receives notice of the bankruptcy action, SSA stops all actions to: * approve or disapprove a fee agreement, * set the amount of the representative's fee based on a fee petition or an approved fee agreement (either initially or in response to a request for administrative review from a proper party), or * pay an authorized fee from past-due benefits to a representative who is an attorney or an eligible-for-direct-payment non-attorney. The automatic stay that follows from the bankruptcy proceeding merely suspends the adjudication or collection of the debt. The stay does not automatically eliminate the debt. SSA will delay taking any other action on the fee request until the bankruptcy court provides instructions. Once the bankruptcy court has released the claimant from the debt to the representative, SSA cannot pay a fee directly to the representative. If SSA through administrative error pays a fee directly to a representative after the release of the debt by the bankruptcy court, the representative must return the fee to SSA. If the representative does not return this fee to the Agency, he or she may be in potential violation of 20 CFR 404.1740(c)(2) and 20 CFR 416.1540(c)(2), which prohibit the knowing retention of a fee for representational services in violation of applicable laws or regulations.
smallest investment, on the Internet-Learn More-Click Photo Sometimes, claimants whom I have successfully represented in Supplemental Security Income (SSI) claims Can the Social Security Administration (SSA) provide me with a current address so that I can contact the claimant? SSA's authority to disclose information to an appointed representative is based on the signed form SSA-1696-U4 (Appointment of Representative) or equivalent written statement, and a Privacy Act routine use allowing disclosure to the representative to pursue a claim on the claimant's behalf. Once the representative's services have ended, SSA's authority to disclose information without the specific written consent of the claimant also expires. SSA presumes that a representative's services end at the earliest point that one of the following occurs: * SSA has made a determination or decision and issued any required notices, and the appeals period has expired; * The representative submits a fee petition and declares that his or her services have ended; the claimant advises SSA that he or she has revoked the representative's authority; * The representative advises SSA of withdrawal from the case; or * A decision by SSA to suspend or disqualify the representative has become final. Can the amount of an authorized fee be changed? Yes, it can be changed after an administrative review. In a fee agreement or fee petition situation, a claimant, representative, or affected auxiliary beneficiary who is dissatisfied with the fee amount authorized may ask the Social Security Administration (SSA) to change the fee. The decision maker also may request a change of the fee amount. SSA performs an administrative review of a fee authorization upon receipt of a written request, timely filed by a proper party. When these conditions are met, SSA will notify all other parties of the request for administrative review of the fee amount and give each party the opportunity to submit written information responding to the request. Then SSA assesses whether the fee is reasonable compensation for the specific services provided. Finally, SSA decides whether to affirm or modify (increase or decrease) the fee amount and notifies the parties of its decision. Social Security's Hurricane Information Updated: 09/04/08 4:33 p.m Office Closings As a result of Hurricane Gustav, the following Social Security offices will be closed on Friday,September 5, 2008. Louisiana: Baton Rouge Houma New Orleans Downtown Plaquemine Must representatives use contingency fee arrangements? Custom Search What are some situations that commonly delay the authorization and payment of fees to attorney representatives and eligible-for-direct-payment non-attorney representatives? Are you a new or struggling online entrepreneur? Learn more.
Authorization and payment of fees is often delayed because the Social Security Administration (SSA) does not have evidence (e.g., verification of workers' compensation or public disability benefits, proof of age, etc.) it needs before it can calculate the amount of any past-due benefits, the amount to withhold for direct fee payment and, in the fee agreement process, the fee for the representative's services. Representatives can help speed up the process by submitting the required evidence to SSA. Determinations of past-due benefits for auxiliary claimants (such as a spouse or child) may also delay the calculation and payment of fees, especially when related claimants do not all share the same interests. Why must the Social Security Administration (SSA) compute the workers' compensation offset before SSA computes the retroactive disability insurance benefits and, when applicable, the representative's fee under an approved agreement, and before SSA pays the authorized fee to a representative who is an attorney or eligible-for-direct-payment non-attorney? The Social Security Act generally requires a reduction of disability insurance benefits when an individual is also entitled to periodic benefits under a workers' compensation law or plan, or to certain public disability benefits. By law, SSA can not withhold or make direct fee payment of more than 25% of the resulting past due benefits. Also, when authorizing a fee under the fee agreement process, SSA must apply the percentage specified in the approved fee agreement to the total past-due benefits after the applicable reduction (if any), compare the resulting amount with the statutory maximum (e.g., $5,300), and authorize a fee in the lesser amount. Thus, if a claimant receives workers' compensation and the reduction applies, SSA can not calculate a fee under an approved agreement until it receives the evidence necessary to compute the required offset and determine the correct amount of past-due benefits. Representatives can help to speed up the process by submitting verification of workers' compensation to SSA. How do I obtain the Social Security Administration's (SSA's) authorization to charge and collect a fee for my work on a case? To obtain SSA's authorization, the representative must use one of two, mutually exclusive fee authorization processes --- the fee petition or the fee agreement process. Generally, the choice of which process to use is the representative's and the claimant's. For more information about these fee processes, go to "Overview of Representatives' Fees". Does the Social Security Administration withhold past-due benefits to directly pay all fees for representation? No. SSA is responsible for authorizing and processing direct payment to a representative when: a valid fee agreement or fee petition exists, the representative is eligible for direct payment, and a favorable determination is made that results in past-due Title II and/or Title XVI benefits. If SSA authorizes a fee greater than the amount of past due benefits withheld, the claimant is responsible for paying the difference to the representative. SSA is not responsible for direct payment if:
there is no valid fee agreement or fee petition, the representative is not eligible for direct payment, the fee has been waived by the representative, the representative works for a legal service organization that provides services free of charge and is not collecting a fee, a third party agreed to pay the fee, or there are no past due Title II and/or Title XVI benefits payable. SSA also does not withhold benefits for potential direct payment of fees to any representative whose appointment is no longer in effect. Why does the Social Security Administration (SSA) charge an assessment for withholding and paying an authorized fee from the claimant's past-due benefits to a representative who is an attorney or eligible-for-direct-payment non-attorney?
The Social Security Act requires SSA to charge an assessment or "user fee" to a representative who receives all or part of his or her fee through direct payment from SSA. The Social Security Protection Act of 2004 (Public Law No. 108-203) capped the user fee at the lower of either a flat rate dollar amount or 6.3 percent of the amount of the fee payable from past-due Title II and/or Title XVI benefits. The flat rate dollar amount is adjusted periodically based on the cost of living. Currently, the flat rate dollar amount cannot exceed $79. This assessment is made to cover the administrative costs of processing these fees. The funds SSA collects are then credited to the appropriate Social Security trust fund and/or the general fund of the Treasury.
Is there a limit on how much I may charge
Yes. A representative may charge and collect no more than the amount SSA authorizes in fees for representation of a claimant in a matter before SSA. This is so whether the fee is charged to or received from the claimant or from a third party, such as an insurance company. See Social Security Ruling 85-3 for a description of the only exception. SSA's authorization is not needed for payment of out-of-pocket expenses a representative incurs, such as the cost of medical and vocational exams. Thanks For Coming To Retirement Benefits While Here, Enjoy your retirement by watching an impression of Jimmy Cagney doing "Give My Regards To Broadway" including great music background. Impression by a retired New York judge. See video below "Some Retirement Basics"
Someone told me that Social Security has a financial planning service. What is the connection between financial planning and Social Security? Does Social Security have a Retirement Planner?
Social Security is not in the financial planning business. However, it provides a personal financial planning tool to millions of workers who are paying into Social Security. Each year, workers who are age 25 or older and not already receiving benefits based on their own earnings record, will receive a Social Security Statement about three months before their birthday. The Statement lists the worker's earnings and the amounts of Social Security taxes he or she has paid over the years and provides estimates of the Social Security benefits the worker (and dependent family members) may be eligible to receive now and in the future. The Statement is intended to help workers plan for their financial future.
The Statement doesn't list earnings for any work that is not covered by Social Security, such as some government jobs, because that information is not reported to Social Security. Social Security's online retirement planner will let individuals compute estimates of their future Social Security retirement benefits online. It also provides important information on factors affecting retirement benefits, such as military service, household earnings and federal employment. You can access the SSA's Retirement Planner on our website.
Introduction
You can apply: * Online using our Internet Social Security Benefit Application, or * By phone, or in person at any Social Security office. You can arrange for an appointment to file your application by calling our national toll-free service at 1-800-772-1213 (TDD 1-800-325-0778). An appointment is not required, but may reduce the amount of time you spend waiting in the office. If you apply by phone or in person, we want your visit to go as smoothly as possible. You can help by being ready to answer the following questions and having as many of the needed documents as possible. We may also ask you to provide documents to show that you are eligible: * Birth certificate or other proof of birth; * Naturalization papers; * U.S. military discharge paper(s); * W-2 forms(s) and/or self-employment tax returns for last year. We accept photocopies of W-2 forms, self-employment tax returns or medical documents, but we must see the original of most other documents, such as your birth certificate. (We will return them to you.)
Don’t delay filing your claim just because you don’t have all the documents. We’ll help you get them. * Your name and social security number; * Your name at birth (if different); * Your spouse's name, date of birth and social security number; * Your date of birth and place of birth (State or foreign country); * Whether a public or religious record was made of your birth before age 5; * Your citizenship status; * Whether you or anyone else has ever filed for Social Security benefits, Medicare or Supplemental Security Income on your behalf. (If so, we will also ask for information on whose Social Security record you applied); * Whether you have used any other Social Security number; * Whether you became unable to work because of illnesses, injuries or conditions at any time within the past 14 months. If ”Yes," we will also ask the date you became unable to work; * Whether you were ever in the active military service before 1968 or worked for the railroad industry. (If so, we will ask for the dates of service and whether you are eligible to receive or received a pension from a military or Federal civilian agency.); * Whether you have earned social security credits under another country's social security system; * Whether you qualified for or expect to receive a pension or annuity based on your own employment with the Federal government of the United States or one of its States or local subdivisions; * The names, dates of birth (or age) and social security numbers (if known) of any former spouses; * The dates of each of your marriages and, for marriages that have ended, how and when they ended; * The names of any unmarried children under 16 or age 16 and older and disabled before age 22 in your care; * The amount of your earnings for this year, last year and next year; * Whether you have any unsatisfied felony warrants for your arrest or unsatisfied Federal or State warrants for your arrest for any violations of the conditions of your parole or probation; * The month you want your benefits to begin; and * If you are within 3 months of age 65, whether you want to enroll in Supplemental Medical Insurance (Part B of Medicare) Depending on the information you provide, we may need to ask other questions.You also should bring along your checkbook or other papers that show your account number at a bank, credit union or other financial institution so you can sign up for Direct Deposit, and avoid worries about lost or stolen checks and mail delays.
Information You'll Need When You Apply for Retirement Benefits or Medicare Introduction
You can apply: * Online using our Internet Social Security Benefit Application, or * By phone,l or in person at any Social Security office. You can arrange for an appointment to file your application by calling our national toll-free service at 1-800-772-1213 (TDD 1-800-325-0778). An appointment is not required, but may reduce the amount of time you spend waiting in the office. If you apply by phone or in person, we want your visit to go as smoothly as possible. You can help by being ready to answer the following questions and having as many of the needed documents as possible. We may also ask you to provide documents to show that you are eligible: * Birth certificate or other proof of birth; * Naturalization papers; * U.S. military discharge paper(s); * W-2 forms(s) and/or self-employment tax returns for last year. We accept photocopies of W-2 forms, self-employment tax returns or medical documents, but we must see the original of most other documents, such as your birth certificate. (We will return them to you.) Don’t delay filing your claim just because you don’t have all the documents. We’ll help you get them.
When you apply for retirement benefits, we will ask you: * Your name, gender and social security number; * Your name at birth (if different); * Your date of birth and place of birth (State or foreign country); * Whether a public or religious record was made of your birth before age 5; * Your citizenship status; * Whether you or anyone else has ever filed for Social Security benefits, Medicare or Supplemental Security Income on your behalf (if so, we will also ask for information on whose Social Security record you applied); * Whether you have used any other Social Security number; * Whether you became unable to work because of illnesses, injuries or conditions at any time within the past 14 months.If "Yes," we will also ask the date you became unable to work; * Whether you were ever in the active military service before 1968 and, if so, the dates of service and whether you have ever been eligible to receive a monthly benefit from a military or Federal civilian agency; * Whether you or your spouse have ever worked for the railroad industry; * Whether you have earned social security credits under another country's social security system; * Whether you qualified for or expect to receive a pension or annuity based on your own employment with the Federal government of the United States or one of its States or local subdivisions; * Whether you are currently married and, if so, your spouse's name, date of birth (or age) and social security number (if known). * The names, dates of birth (or age) and social security numbers (if known) of any former spouses; * The dates and places of each of your marriages and, for marriages that have ended, how and when they ended; * The names of any unmarried children under 18, 18 -19 and in secondary school or disabled before age 22; * The name(s) of your employer(s) and/or information about your self-employment and the amount of your earnings for this year, last year and next year; * Whether you had earnings in all years since 1978; * Whether we may contact your employers for wage information; * Whether you have any unsatisfied felony warrants for your arrest or unsatisfied Federal or State warrants for your arrest for any violations of the conditions of your parole or probation; * The month you want your benefits to begin; and * If you are within 3 months of age 65, whether you want to enroll in Supplemental Medical Insurance (Part B of Medicare). Depending on the information you provide, we may need to ask other questions. You also should bring along your checkbook or other papers that show your account number at a bank, credit union or other financial institution so you can sign up for Direct Deposit, and avoid worries about lost or stolen checks and mail delays.
If your application has recently been denied, the Internet Appeal is a starting point to request a review of our decision about your eligibility for disability benefits.
This is the starting point to request a review of our medical decision about your eligibility for disability benefits. There are two parts to this Internet Appeal process: (1) an Appeal Request Internet form, and (2) an Appeal Disability Report that gives us more information about your condition. You can complete both forms online. To appeal online, the only form you are required to submit is an appeal request (Part 1). However, we encourage you to submit an Appeal Disability Report (Part 2) because it will give us more information about you and help us in processing your appeal. We estimate it will take 18 to 20 minutes, with an average of 19 minutes, to complete Part 1; and 15 to 45 minutes, with an average of 30 minutes, to complete Part 2. If you do not want to use the Internet to request your appeal, there are Other Ways to Request an Appeal or Complete a Disability Report. Note: We use the term "claimant" to refer to the adult or child whose disability decision is being appealed.
What is the Benefit Eligibility Screening Tool?
The Benefit Eligibility Screening Tool (BEST) helps you find out if you could get benefits that Social Security administers. Based on your answers to questions, this tool will list benefits for which you might be eligible and tell you more information about how to qualify and apply. BEST is NOT an application for benefits and: does not know, or ask for, your name or Social Security number. does not access your personal Social Security records. will not give you an estimate of benefit amounts. BEST will NOT screen for help with Medicare prescription drug plan costs. If you have Medicare, you might be eligible for this program.
Issue Number: IR-2008-91 Inside This Issue IRS Sending Stimulus Payment Information to Retirees, Veterans Public Service Announcement: It's Not Too Late To Get Your Stimulus Payment WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today reminded qualifying retirees and veterans that it is not too late to file for an economic stimulus payment and announced it will send a second set of information packets to 5.2 million people who may be eligible but who have not yet filed for their stimulus payment. The packages will contain everything needed by a person who normally does not have a filing requirement but who must file this year in order to receive an economic stimulus payment. There will be instructions, an example Form 1040A return showing the few lines that need to be completed, and a blank Form 1040A. The packages will be mailed over a three-week period starting July 21. “All it takes is a few simple steps, and the payment can be on its way. It’s not too late to file, but the sooner people file, the faster they’ll receive their money,” said Doug Shulman, IRS Commissioner. The mailing is part of an IRS summer campaign to reach out to those people who have no requirement to file a tax return but who may be eligible for a stimulus payment of up to $300 ($600 for married filing jointly). For those eligible for a payment for themselves, there also is a $300 per child payment for eligible children younger than 17.
To reach the remaining recipients, the IRS is working with national partners, members of Congress and state and local officials to ensure that assistance to eligible people is available. The agency also reminded people that it has more than 400 local Taxpayer Assistance Centers operating normal business hours Monday through Friday. These centers can provide assistance to retirees and veterans trying to receive their payments. A list of addresses and office hours can be found at Contact My Local Office.The Economic Stimulus Act of 2008 provided for payments of up to $600 ($1,200 for married filing jointly) for taxpayers who normally file a tax return and have a tax liability. It provided that stimulus recipients could receive another $300 for each eligible child younger than 17. The Act also created a special category for people who had certain types of income but may not file a tax return because their income is too low or their income is nontaxable. People in this category must have at least $3,000 in qualifying income to be eligible for the minimum amount of $300 ($600 married filing jointly). Qualifying income is the total of Social Security, Veterans Affairs and/or Railroad Retirement benefits plus earned income, including nontaxable combat pay People receiving only Supplemental Security Income are not eligible. Eligible people must have a Social Security number (unless their spouse is a member of the military) and be neither a dependent nor eligible to be a dependent on another’s tax return. Receiving the stimulus payment should have no impact on other federal benefits currently being received. The stimulus payment is not taxable. Absent any other filing requirements, filing a tax return to receive a stimulus payment does not mean that retirees and others will have to start filing tax returns again. As of July 11, the IRS had issued 112.4 million payments totaling $91.8 billion. Payments are based on 2007 tax returns being filed this year. People must file by Oct. 15 in order to receive a payment in 2008. Those who do not file a tax return to obtain their stimulus payment this year may still receive their stimulus payments by filing a 2008 tax return next spring, but then their stimulus payment would be based on their 2008 qualifying income. Related Item: Stimulus Payments — It's Not Too Late
How will members of the armed forces receive their stimulus payments? Members of the armed forces need to file a 2007 income tax return to receive the stimulus payment.
I have moved since filing my 2007 tax return. How will my payment reach me? You should file a Form 8822 with the IRS and a change of address notice with the U.S. Postal Service. This will ensure your check is sent to your new address. Without your current address, the check could be returned to the IRS as undeliverable.
The notice I received shows I should have gotten more than the government actually deposited into my bank account. What happened? A. It could be that the amount deposited into your bank account was what remained of your stimulus payment after it was reduced, or offset to collect back taxes or other debts such as a student loan or child support. If this is the case, you will receive a separate notice about two weeks after you receive your stimulus payment and notice.
I received my stimulus payment, but it was less than what my friends and neighbors received. Why? A. Your economic stimulus payment is based on information provided on your 2007 income tax return. Many but not all taxpayers qualify for the maximum basic payment of $600 for singles or $1,200 for married couples. Many parents are also receiving an additional $300 for each qualifying child, born after Dec. 31, 1990. Your payment may be less than the maximum for one or more of the following reasons: You are single and your net income tax liability is less than $600. If you file Form 1040 net income tax liability is the amount shown on Line 57, plus the amount on Line 52. You are married and your net income tax liability is less than $1,200. You are single and your adjusted gross income (AGI) is more than $75,000. On Form 1040, AGI is the amount on Line 37.
You are married filing a joint return and your AGI is more than $150,000. You owe back taxes that reduced your payment. You have non-tax federal debts such as unpaid student loans or child-support obligations that reduced your payment. Around the time you receive your payment, you will also receive a notice from the IRS explaining how your payment was calculated. It is important to keep this notice as a record of your economic stimulus payment. In addition, you’ll get a separate notice if you owe back taxes or non-tax debts that were offset or deducted from your stimulus payment. The Economic Stimulus Payments FAQs section of this Web site has further details on how these payments are figured.
Is there something I can do to prevent my stimulus payment from being automatically deposited into the account that I identified for the direct deposit of my regular refund? A. Generally, if you designated direct deposit on a tax return, the stimulus payment will go to the account number you designated. If the account number is no longer active, the IRS will send you a paper check. This process may take several weeks.
Will the IRS allow me to provide it with direct deposit information, if I didn’t include that information on my original tax return? A. You cannot correct direct deposit information or request a direct deposit after a return has been filed.
Q. I chose direct deposit for my 2007 tax refund but also requested a refund anticipation loan (RAL) from my preparer. How does that affect my stimulus payment? A. Taxpayers who use Refund Anticipation Loans (RALs) or enter into any other loans or financial agreements with a tax professional, such as agreeing to have return preparation fees deducted from their refunds, cannot receive their stimulus payments by direct deposit and instead will get paper checks based on the paper check distribution schedule.
Q. I filed my return on time, but I haven’t received my stimulus payment, even though the payment date listed for my Social Security number has passed. Why? A. In general, the payment schedule only applies if your return was received and the IRS finished processing it before April 15. If you filed your return on time, but close to the April 15 deadline, the IRS may not have finished processing it before April 15. Processing times for tax returns and stimulus payments vary. If you are getting a regular income-tax refund, the IRS will send you that refund first. Normally, your stimulus payment will follow one to two weeks later. If you are not expecting a regular tax refund, your stimulus payment generally should arrive a minimum of six weeks after you file. Also, if you chose direct deposit and requested a Refund Anticipation Loan (RAL) or had your refund deposited into more than one account, you will receive a paper check based on the distribution schedule for paper checks.
I filed after April 15 and the payment date for my Social Security number has passed. How long will it take for me to get my stimulus payment?
A. It will generally take a minimum of six weeks after you file your return to get your stimulus payment.
Economic Stimulus Payments: Most Frequently Asked Questions
Q. When will I get my payment? A. Payments are going out now for those returns processed by April 15 and will continue on a weekly schedule through mid-July. See the payment schedule for both direct deposit and paper checks for further information. Payments will continue through 2008 for returns filed after April 15.
Issue Number: IR-2008-082 Inside This Issue IRS Increases Mileage Rates through Dec. 31, 2008 WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today announced an increase in the optional standard mileage rates for the final six months of 2008. Taxpayers may use the optional standard rates to calculate the deductible costs of operating an automobile for business, charitable, medical or moving purposes. The rate will increase to 58.5 cents a mile for all business miles driven from July 1, 2008, through Dec. 31, 2008. This is an increase of eight (8) cents from the 50.5 cent rate in effect for the first six months of 2008, as set forth in Rev. Proc. 2007-70. In recognition of recent gasoline price increases, the IRS made this special adjustment for the final months of 2008. The IRS normally updates the mileage rates once a year in the fall for the next calendar year. "Rising gas prices are having a major impact on individual Americans. Given the increase in prices, the IRS is adjusting the standard mileage rates to better reflect the real cost of operating an automobile," said IRS Commissioner Doug Shulman. "We want the reimbursement rate to be fair to taxpayers." While gasoline is a significant factor in the mileage figure, other items enter into the calculation of mileage rates, such as depreciation and insurance and other fixed and variable costs. The optional business standard mileage rate is used to compute the deductible costs of operating an automobile for business use in lieu of tracking actual costs. This rate is also used as a benchmark by the federal government and many businesses to reimburse their employees for mileage. The new six-month rate for computing deductible medical or moving expenses will also increase by eight (8) cents to 27 cents a mile, up from 19 cents for the first six months of 2008. The rate for providing services for charitable organizations is set by statute, not the IRS, and remains at 14 cents a mile. The new rates are contained in Announcement 2008-63 on the optional standard mileage rates. Taxpayers always have the option of calculating the actual costs of using their vehicle rather than using the standard mileage rates. Mileage Rate Changes Purpose
Rates 1/1 through 6/30/08
Rates 7/1 through 12/31/08 Business
50.5
58.5 Medical/Moving
19
27 Charitable
14
14
Is there a limit on how much I may charge for representing a claimant before the Social Security Administration (SSA)?
Yes. A representative may charge and collect no more than the amount SSA authorizes in fees for representation of a claimant in a matter before SSA. This is so whether the fee is charged to or received from the claimant or from a third party, such as an insurance company. See Social Security Ruling 85-3 for a description of the only exception. SSA's authorization is not needed for payment of out-of-pocket expenses a representative incurs, such as the cost of medical and vocational exams.
SOCIAL SECURITY News Release
Social Security Announces Improvements to theTicket to Work Program
The Social Security Administration issued final rules designed to improve the Ticket to Work program. The changes will improve the effectiveness of the Ticket program in assisting beneficiaries with disabilities who want to work. "These rules outline a new and improved Ticket to Work program and are based on learning from our experiences, listening to input from interested parties, and responding to their suggestions," said Michael J. Astrue, Commissioner of Social Security. "Beneficiaries with disabilities will have greater flexibility and expanded choices in obtaining the services they need to attain their employment goals." The new Ticket to Work program rules: Include more beneficiaries under the Program--The population of individuals eligible for a Ticket is expanded to include beneficiaries who are expected to medically improve. Increase incentive payments for Employment Networks (ENs)--The new rules modify the EN payment systems to create greater financial incentives for service providers to participate, which will improve beneficiary access to services and expand the pool of quality providers available to serve beneficiaries. Increase the value of the Ticket--The rules for Ticket assignment are changed to enable beneficiaries with disabilities to take advantage of a more effective combination of services from both State Vocational Rehabilitation agencies and ENs. Synergize efforts--The new rules promote better alignment of the Ticket to Work Program, the Work Incentives Planning and Assistance Program, the Protection and Advocacy for Beneficiaries of Social Security Program, and other Social Security work incentive initiatives. "Thus far, the results of the Ticket to Work program have been less than everyone expected and clearly less than Congress intended," Commissioner Astrue said. "We need to monitor the results of today’s regulation closely, but it is highly likely that Congress will need to revisit the statute in the next few years in order to achieve the goals that Congress intended." In preparation for the new Ticket to Work program, Social Security is undertaking a major recruitment effort to increase the number of organizations functioning as ENs. Social Security also is initiating targeted outreach to promote the Program to more beneficiaries and to encourage their participation. In addition, Social Security is presenting at national and state conferences and bringing beneficiaries and ENs together at local Work Incentives Seminars (WISE events) throughout the country. The Ticket to Work and Work Incentives Improvement Act of 1999 established the Ticket to Work and Self-Sufficiency Program. The purpose of the Ticket to Work program is to expand the universe of service providers available to beneficiaries with disabilities who are seeking vocational rehabilitation, employment and related support services. These service providers are available to assist beneficiaries in obtaining, regaining and maintaining self-supporting employment. Available in all 50 States and the US territories, the Ticket to Work program is an important component in a coordinated series of work incentives and initiatives that are designed to help overcome barriers to employment often experienced by beneficiaries with disabilities. The final rule, 20 CFR Part 411,Get Acrobat Reader can be accessed through the Federal Register online at www.regulations.gov. For general information about the Ticket to Work Program, visit Social Security's website--The Work Site: www.socialsecurity.gov/work . # # #
Are those who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) eligible for the stimulus payment?
To receive a payment, taxpayers must have a valid Social Security number, $3,000 of income and file a 2007 federal tax return. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) does not count as qualifying income for the stimulus payment. For more information, the IRS website has the best and most up-to-date information to answer your questions about the stimulus payment. If you prefer, you may call IRS on their toll-free number at 1-800-829-1040.
How does a disabled widow or widower become entitled to benefits?
Benefits may be payable to a widow or widower with a disability if the following conditions are met: He or she is between ages 50 and 60. The widow or widower meets the definition of disability for adults. The disability started before the worker's death or within seven years after death. Note: If a widow or widower caring for the deceased's children receives Social Security benefits, he or she is eligible if disability starts before those payments end or within seven years after they end. A widow or widower cannot apply online for survivors benefits based on their disability but he or she can get the process started by completing an Adult Disability Report before they contact us. We use the same definition of disability for widows and widowers as we do for workers.
What are the requirements to receive Social Security benefits? Social Security reaches almost every family, and at some point will touch the lives of nearly all Americans. Social Security helps not only older Americans, but also workers who become disabled and families in which a spouse or parent dies. Today, more than 163 million people work and pay Social Security taxes and more than 50 million people receive monthly Social Security benefits. Most of our beneficiaries are retirees and their families—about 34 million people. But Social Security was never meant to be the only source of income for people when they retire. Social Security replaces about 40 percent of an average wage earner’s income after retiring, and most financial advisors say retirees will need about 70–80 percent of their work income to live comfortably in retirement. To have a comfortable retirement, Americans need much more than just Social Security. They also need private pensions, savings and investments. The Social Security Administration wants you to understand what Social Security can mean to you and your family’s financial future. Our publication, Understanding The Benefits, explains the basics of the Social Security retirement, disability and survivors insurance programs.
Why does Social Security provide benefit notices in Spanish? The Social Security Administration (SSA) is required to provide Spanish letters as a result of the "Cruz v. Califano Stipulation" that was signed by both parties and issued by the US District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania on September 26, 1979. Specifically, when Social Security beneficiaries indicate that they would prefer to receive notices in Spanish or when they meet certain criteria specified in the case, the settlement requires us to send a Spanish letter that advises beneficiaries of an adverse action and informs them of any appeal rights. In addition, in response to a provision in the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1989, SSA reported to Congress on the service it was providing to its non-English speaking customers. Congress asked SSA to develop alternatives that would improve access to SSA programs for non-English speaking customers. In that report, SSA committed to expanding service to our Spanish-speaking clients. Please note that it is desirable and cost-effective to provide notices in Spanish. A survey of Social Security field offices showed that out of 1,282 offices included in the study, 827 (64.5 percent) provide service to non-English speaking populations. Out of those 827 offices, 757 of them (91.5 percent) provide service to Spanish-speaking claimants. Because Spanish-speaking customers did not understand the English notices we sent them, they were contacting field offices and teleservice centers for explanations of information we had sent to them in English. Providing notices and commonly used pamphlets in Spanish eliminates the need for repeated contacts with SSA, freeing up our employees to provide other kinds of needed service. Our objectives are to provide our Spanish-speaking customers with better service and also to make the most effective use of our employees' services.
I understand that Social Security has a database of individuals who have been identified as having qualified for pension benefits under private retirement plans. How can I find out about my pension benefits?
Social Security keeps a database of individuals who have been identified by the Internal Revenue Service as having qualified for pension benefits under private retirement plans. This database is maintained by SSA under the 1974 Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) which was enacted to protect the pension benefit right of workers. Under the provisions of ERISA, SSA notifies claimants applying for Social Security benefits of any information SSA has on file about their vested pension benefits or those of the deceased number holder. Also under the provisions of ERISA, SSA can provide, upon request, any information there is on file about a person's vested pension benefits. To request information on a private retirement plans, send a written request to: OCO Office of Earnings Operations Attention: ERISA Correspondence Group P.O. Box 33007 Baltimore, MD 21290-3307 In your request, you should include the following information on yourself or the deceased number holder: Social Security Number, name, date of birth, parents' names, and signature; Name of pension plan and month and year that you or the number holder terminated employment covered by the plan; The Privacy Act penalty statement: “I certify that I am the person to whom the record pertains, or that person's parent (if a minor) or legal guardian, or a person who is authorized to sign on behalf of that individual. I know that the knowing and willful request or acquisition of records under false pretences is a criminal offense subject to a fine of up to $5,000”; and Name and address of person who is to be sent the information.
I have an elderly friend who receives Social Security benefits. I'm concerned that she's unable to manage her money to pay her bills on time. Can Social Security help her? Yes. When an individual who gets Social Security or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) checks is determined to be unable to manage benefits in his or her own best interest, the Social Security Administration appoints a representative payee to assume these responsibilities. In these cases, the Social Security or SSI benefits are sent directly to the representative payee. The payee takes care of using funds for the personal care and well-being of the beneficiary and agrees to report certain changes in the beneficiary's circumstances that could affect the continuing eligibility to receive benefits. To get more information, call your local Social Security office or our toll-free number, 1-800-772-1213, and ask about "representative payees." People who are deaf or hard of hearing may call our "TTY" number, 1-800-325-0778, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. on business days.
I heard that the Social Security retirement age is increasing. Is this true and if so, why?
When Social Security was just getting started back in 1935, the average American's life expectancy was just under age 60. Today it's more than 25 percent longer at just over 76. That means workers have more time for retirement, and more time to collect Social Security. And that's why Social Security's retirement age is gradually changing...to keep pace with increases in longevity. Workers born before January 2,1938 can collect full benefits at age 65. For those born after that date, the age to collect full benefits is gradually being raised to age 67.
How can I obtain proof of my military service?
Social Security often needs to have proof of military service. The DD-214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty) is the document most often used as proof of military service. The SF-180 is the form completed for this request. You can make an online request for proof of military service from the National Archives. See How to Request Military Service Records or Prove Military Service for more information.
My ex-wife died a month ago. Are our children, ages 11 and 14, eligible for Social Security benefits? Possibly. It depends on whether she had enough work credits to be insured. If she did, your children may be eligible for benefits. Apply for survivors benefits promptly because benefits are generally retroactive only up to 6 months. You can apply by calling Social Security's toll-free number, 1-800-772-1213. People who are deaf or hard of hearing may call our toll-free TTY number, 1-800-325-0778, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. on Monday through Friday.
Am I entitled to widow’s or widower’s benefits if I remarry?
Generally, you cannot get widow’s or widower’s benefits if you remarry before age 60. But remarriage after age 60 (or age 50 if you are disabled) will not prevent you from getting benefit payments based on your former spouse’s work. And at age 62 or older, you may get benefits based on your new spouse’s work, if those benefits would be higher. See our publication, Survivors Benefits, for more information on qualifying for widow’s or widower’s benefits.
I'm getting ready to sign up for Social Security. I heard I have to show you my birth certificate. I've got a copy of it in my safe deposit box. Is this good enough? It depends. If your copy is signed by the agency that issued your birth certificate and carries an official seal, then it's acceptable. We cannot accept an uncertified photocopy.
I would like to know if a parent will be eligible to receive as a survivor on the record of a deceased working child? A parent is entitled to survivor benefits on the record of a deceased child if the child was fully insured at the time of death and the parent: Is age 62 or older; Not entitled to benefits on his or her own record that are equal to or greater than the amount of the survivor's benefit; and Was receiving at least one-half support from the deceased child. In order to receive survivor benefits, the parent must: File and application; Provide the evidence of support; and Not have remarried since the deceased child's death. The above requirements apply to natural parents, legally adoptive parents and stepparents established before the deceased child reached age 16.
What are the requirements for receiving disabled widow's benefits? You may be able to get disabled widow(er)'s benefits at age 50 if you are found to meet Social Security's disability requirement. Your disabling impairment must have started before age 60 AND within 7 years of the latest of the following dates: the month the worker died; OR the last month you were entitled to mother's or father's benefits on the worker's record; OR the month your previous entitlement to disabled widow(er)'s benefits ended because your disability ended. Contact 1-800-772-1213 to make an appointment to file for benefits. People who are deaf or hard of hearing may call our toll-free TTY number, 1-800-325-0778, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. on Monday through Friday.
Can I opt out of Social Security? Can I withdraw taxes that I have paid for Social Security coverage?
No. Social Security coverage is mandatory. But consider this: unlike your private plan, Social Security provides disability and survivors coverage in addition to retirement benefits. And Social Security generally offers greater protection for family members than private pensions. The law also does not permit a refund of Social Security taxes. The authority for the collection of taxes, including Social Security taxes, is found in the Internal Revenue Code, not the Social Security Act. (See sections 3101(a) and 3102(a) of the Code.) We suggest that you direct any questions you may have about tax liability to that Agency for consideration. The address is: Internal Revenue Service1111 Constitution Avenue NWWashington, D.C. 20224.
I have two children at home and I plan to retire next fall. Will my children be eligible for monthly Social Security checks after I retire? Monthly Social Security payments may be made to your children if they are unmarried and under age 18, or age 19 if still in high school, or age 18 or over and became severely disabled before age 22 and continue to be disabled. The types of children who may qualify include a natural legitimate child; legally adopted child; and dependent stepchild or grandchild. For more information on benefits for children see Benefits For Children.
If a person dies before payment is made can payment be collected by the estate?
An underpayment of benefits due on behalf of a deceased beneficiary is payable to the next of kin or to the legal representative of the estate under the following order of priority established by law: 1. A spouse who was living with the beneficiary when he or she died or a spouse entitled on the same earnings record, 2. A child entitled on the same earnings record, 3. A parent entitled on the same earnings record, 4. A spouse not entitled on the same earnings record, 5. A child not entitled on the same earnings record, 6. A parent not entitled on the same earnings record, or 7. A legal representative of the estate. An underpayment must be paid in this order. If no one qualifies in the first category, then we proceed to the second category, and so on. In order for a payment to be due, the deceased beneficiary must have lived throughout the entire month for which the check was issued. To claim the underpayment, you will need to file Form SSA-1724 at your local office. Your can also call 1-800-772-1213 for instructions. People who are deaf or hard of hearing may call our toll-free TTY number, 1-800-325-0778, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. on Monday through Friday.
What is a "representative payee"?
A representative payee is the person, agency, organization, or institution selected to receive and manage benefits on behalf of an incapable beneficiary. This includes a parent who is receiving benefits on behalf of his/her minor child. Some beneficiaries are not able to manage or direct the management of their finances because of their youth or mental or physical impairment. For such people, Congress provided for payment to be made through a representative payee who receives and manages benefit payments of the beneficiary. When a representative payee is appointed, the SSA field office provides the payee with complete information about the use of benefits; i.e., proper disbursement and how benefits should be conserved or invested and ensures that the payee understands the fiduciary nature of the relationship, that benefits belong to the beneficiary and are not the property of the payee. The payee is informed about the penalties for using the benefits other than for the benefit of the beneficiary and that an annual accounting is required. For information on representative payee responsibilities, see A Guide For Representative Payees.
How do I earn a Social Security credit? A "Social Security credit" (sometimes referred to as a "Quarter of coverage") is the measure of a person's work under the Social Security program. We use a person's total covered yearly earnings to figure Social Security credits for both wages and net earnings from self-employment. The amount needed for a credit increases automatically each year that average wages increase. For 2008, workers generally receive one credit for each $1,050 of earnings. For 2007, the amount of earnings for one credit was $1000. A worker can receive a maximum of four credits for any year. Before Social Security credits can be earned for any year, a self-employed person usually has to have net earnings of at least $400. However, a person with actual net earnings from self-employment of less than $400 may still receive credits for years in which he or she uses the "optional method" of reporting earnings. For the amount required for Social Security credits for prior years, see Quarter of Coverage.
Our daughter, who had two young children, passed away two years ago. Her husband is planning to remarry and his fiance wants to adopt the children after the marriage. Will the children lose the Social Security survivor's benefits that they currently receive?
No. The adoption of a child already entitled to survivor's benefits does not terminate the child's benefits.
My brother died without leaving a spouse or children and I paid for his funeral. Can I receive the $255.00 death benefit for him?
No. This payment is limited to a spouse who was living with the worker at the time of death or to a spouse or a child who, in the month of death, is eligible for a Social Security benefit based on the worker's record.
If my retirement or disability benefits are computed under the WEP, will the benefits of my dependents and survivors be affected? The Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) affects the benefits of retired or disabled workers who are also receiving a pension based on work not covered by Social Security. Since dependents' benefits are derived from the worker's benefit, WEP affects dependents' benefits as well. WEP does not affect benefits paid to survivors of workers who received pensions based on noncovered employment. EXAMPLE: A worker and spouse both claim their benefits at full retirement age. Because the worker receives a pension based on work not covered by Social Security, the benefit amount under the WEP benefit formula is $700. Based on the WEP benefit amount, the spouse's benefit is $350 (one-half of the worker's WEP benefit amount). When the worker dies, the WEP reduction is removed. The surviving spouse's benefit is refigured using the regular benefit formula.
Can a child receive benefits on the record of a grandparent? A dependent grandchild or step-grandchild may receive benefits on the record of a grandparent if the following requirements are met:
The grandchild's natural or adoptive parents are deceased or disabled:
At the time the grandparent became entitled to retirement or disability insurance benefits or died; or
At the beginning of the grandparent's period of disability which continued until he or she became entitled to disability or retirement insurance benefits or died.
The grandchild was legally adopted by the grandparent's surviving spouse in an adoption decreed by a court of competent jurisdiction within the U.S.
The grandchild's natural or adopting parent or stepparent must not have been living in the same household and making regular contributions to the child's support at the time the grandparent died.
The grandchild must have lived with the grandparent in the U.S. before reaching age 18 and received at least one-half support from the grandparent for the year before the month the grandparent began receiving retirement or disability benefits or died.
If a person gets convicted of a crime and spends time in jail, does this person lose their Social Security Benefits? Social Security benefits are withheld for any month, or any part of a month, a person is convicted and confined for more than 30 continuous days in a correctional institution in the United States. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments are also withheld when a person is incarcerated for at least 1 full calendar month. To help us comply with the law, we have agreements with each state and many of the local jurisdictions. Under these agreements, states and local jurisdictions provide us with the names and Social Security numbers of people in their correctional facilities.
Both my spouse and I work and pay Social Security taxes. On which record will my benefits be based? You will receive benefits based on your work record if you have worked long enough under Social Security-usually 10 years-to be entitled to benefits. However, if the benefit you can receive as a spouse is higher than your own Social Security benefit, you will receive a combination of benefits equaling the higher spouse benefit. You can file for retirement and/or spouse's benefits online.
My husband is presently incarcerated and does not receive social security benefits. Are my son and I eligible for any benefits while he is in jail? If you, your son and your husband were receiving Social Security benefits prior to his incarceration, benefits to you and your son could continue while he is incarcerated. However, if your husband was not receiving Social Security benefits prior to his incarceration, no benefits can be paid to you or your son during his incarceration. You should contact your social services/welfare department to find out if there are other locally sponsored programs that can provide assistance to you.
Can I borrow from my future Social Security benefits? No. The Social Security program is not intended to be a source from which people can borrow. The Social Security benefit program is a system of social insurance designed to protect workers and their families against the loss of earnings due to retirement, severe and extended disability, or death. Benefits are intended to replace part of the earnings lost to the worker and the family when the worker retires, becomes disabled, or dies. The Social Security taxes that employees and employers pay on workers' earnings are not placed in an individual worker's account, but are pooled in special funds from which benefits are paid to eligible workers and their families. If people were permitted to borrow from the Social Security trust funds, the funds would not be available to pay benefits. In addition, there would be problems when people were unable to repay the money they borrowed or when they became disabled or died before repayment.
My mother, a widow, died in late April. Social Security tells me that I must return her April benefit (paid in May) even though she was alive most of the month. Why is this? Social Security benefits are not pro-rated. To be entitled to a Social Security benefit check for a given month, the person must be alive the entire month. No benefit is payable for the month of death. You can return the check at your local Social Security office.
What is the "Notch"? The term "Notch" refers to the difference in Social Security benefits paid to people born between 1917 and 1921, and those paid to people before then. The "Notch" occurs because some workers born between 1910 and 1916 receive unintended windfall benefits due to a mistake in the 1972 computation method enacted by Congress that overcompensated for inflation. The mistake was corrected by legislation enacted in 1977, and benefits for all workers born after 1916 are computed under the correct method. Workers born between 1917 and 1921 are receiving appropriate benefits at levels that were intended by Congress. No inequity has occurred with regard to these workers. Legislative proposals to address the "Notch" would simply extend the unintended windfall benefits to additional people. Cost projections for bills that would increase benefits for people born in the Notch years (1917-1921) range from $25 billion to $860 billion over the next 10 years. These costs would reduce the Social Security trust fund reserves that are intended for "baby boom" generation retirees. The Social Security Notch Commission, a 12-member bipartisan group appointed by the President and Congress, conducted a comprehensive study of the notch issue in 1994. The commission's report concluded that "benefits paid to those in the 'notch' years are equitable, and no remedial legislation is in order." For the full report, see Final Report on the Social Security "Notch" Issue. You can also access a publication The "Notch" Provision. More detailed information regarding the history of the Notch issue can be accessed on the the SSA History site.
How do I report the death of a beneficiary? You can report the death to a service representative by calling toll free, 1-800-772-1213 (for the deaf or hard of hearing, call our TTY number, 1-800-325-0778), from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday. Whenever you call, have the deceased person's Social Security number handy. To report the death of a beneficiary, you should: Notify the bank or other financial institution of the beneficiary's death.
Request that the bank or other financial institution return any funds received for the month of death and later to Social Security as soon as possible. Return checks to Social Security as soon as possible. DO NOT CASH any checks received for the month in which the beneficiary died or thereafter. For example, if the person dies in July, you must return the benefit paid in August. A one-time payment of $255 can be paid to the surviving spouse if he or she was living with the deceased; or, if living apart, was receiving certain Social Security benefits on the deceased's record. If there is no surviving spouse, the payment is made to a child who is eligible for benefits on the deceased's record in the month of death. Some of the deceased's family members may be able to receive Social Security benefits if the deceased person worked long enough under Social Security to qualify for benefits. You should get in touch with your local Social Security office as soon as you can to make sure the family receives all of the benefits to which they may be entitled.
My mother is disabled and I need to stay home to help care for her. Does Social Security provide benefits to a caregiver or housekeeper? No. There is no provision in the Social Security Act to provide benefits for caregivers of the aged or disabled. However, you may want to contact your local Social Services or Welfare department to determine if there are any locally sponsored programs that might provide you with assistance. They may also be able to provide you with the names of organizations that might help.
My neighbor, who is retired, told me that the income he receives from his part-time job at the local nursery gives him an increase in his Social Security benefits. Is that right?
People who return to work after they start receiving benefits may be able to receive a higher benefit based on those earnings. This is because Social Security automatically recomputes the benefit amount after the additional earnings are credited to the individual's earnings record.
Someone told me that Social Security has a financial planning service. What is the connection between financial planning and Social Security? Does Social Security have a Retirement Planner? Social Security is not in the financial planning business. However, it provides a personal financial planning tool to millions of workers who are paying into Social Security. Each year, workers who are age 25 or older and not already receiving benefits based on their own earnings record, will receive a Social Security Statement about three months before their birthday. The Statement lists the worker's earnings and the amounts of Social Security taxes he or she has paid over the years and provides estimates of the Social Security benefits the worker (and dependent family members) may be eligible to receive now and in the future. The Statement is intended to help workers plan for their financial future. The Statement doesn't list earnings for any work that is not covered by Social Security, such as some government jobs, because that information is not reported to Social Security. Social Security's online retirement planner will let individuals compute estimates of their future Social Security retirement benefits online. It also provides important information on factors affecting retirement benefits, such as military service, household earnings and federal employment. You can access the SSA's Retirement Planner on our website.
What month do retirement benefits begin? A person who meets all requirements for entitlement can receive reduced benefits beginning with the first full month that he/she is age 62. Thus, benefits are not paid for the month a person reaches age 62 unless his or her birthday is on the first or second day of the month. (Under a common law rule, a person reaches a given age on the day before his or her birthday.) Social Security benefits are paid in the month following the month for which they are due. For example, if your 62nd birthday is July 15, your first month of entitlement is August, and you would receive your first check in September.
The trustees, issuing a once-a-year analysis of the government's two biggest benefit programs, said the resources in the Social Security trust fund will be depleted by 2041. The reserves in the Medicare trust fund that pays hospital benefits were projected to be wiped out by 2019. Both those dates were the same as in last year's report. But the trustees warned that financial pressures will begin much sooner when the programs begin paying out more in benefits each year than they collect in payroll taxes. For Medicare, that threshhold is projected to be reached this year and for Social Security it is projected to occur in 2017. Even this warning doesn't go far enough. The so-called trust fund is a fund that has nothing but IOU's. It is paper that has replaced the money congress has stolen from the social security yearly excess revenues. Congress has spent the money on pork barrel projects among other horrors.
I am 65 and my wife is 62 and receiving spouse's benefits. When does she qualify for Medicare benefits? Most people must wait until age 65 to qualify for Medicare benefits. Some people can get Medicare at any age. This includes people who: Have been getting Social Security disability benefits for 24 months; Have kidney failure and require dialysis; Have had a kidney transplant; or Receive disability benefits because they suffer from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (also known as Lou Gehrig's disease).
How do I obtain a Proof of Income Letter, also know as an Award Letter? Some people who get Social Security or Supplemental Security Income Benefits require a statement of their benefit amount or other information to show to another agency to obtain services or other benefits. The Proof of Income Letter can be used for this purpose and can be obtained on the Internet at Request a Proof of Income Letter. The letter will be mailed to the address we have on your record. You can also call our toll-free number, 1-800-772-1213, and one of our representatives will be glad to mail one out to you. People who are deaf or hard of hearing may call our "TTY" number, 1-800-325-0778, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. on business days. If you prefer, you can visit your local Social Security office to obtain the Proof of Income Letter. The address and directions to your local office can be found on the Internet.
Issue Number: IR-2008-037 Inside This Issue Special Economic Stimulus Payment Packages Go to Social Security, Veterans Recipients WASHINGTON — Starting [this] week, the Internal Revenue Service will mail special information packages to 20.5 million recipients of Social Security or Veterans Affairs benefits to help them get their 2008 economic stimulus payment. The 10-page tax package contains everything the recipients will need to file a 2007 tax form immediately. Each package contains an informational notice, tips for completing Form 1040A, a sample Form 1040A and an actual Form 1040A for the filer to complete. The package is specially designed for people who may qualify for an economic stimulus payment but who normally aren’t required to file a tax return. “We want to put everything right at the fingertips of the people who need this information the most,” said Linda E. Stiff, Acting IRS Commissioner. “In some cases, seniors and others in this group haven’t needed to file a tax return for years or even decades. To help them get a stimulus payment, we’re doing everything we can to make this as easy as possible. These packages mean many people will just need a pen and a stamp, and the IRS will do the rest.” Under the Economic Stimulus Act of 2008, people may be eligible for the minimum payment of $300 ($600 for married couples) even if they do not normally file a tax return. There also is an additional payment of $300 for people with eligible children younger than 17. However, people must file an income tax return in order to receive the payment. People who don’t normally need to file also can use Free File – Economic Stimulus Payment, which is available at IRS.gov. Several Free File software providers are making their products available for the simplified filing of a tax return. “These stimulus payments have the potential to help people in real need and stimulate our economy,” said Tom Nelson, AARP’s Chief Operating Officer. “The IRS, through efforts like this, is doing a great job of informing people that they might be eligible for a stimulus payment, offering step-by-step guidance on how they can apply, and what scams they need to avoid.” To qualify for the minimum economic stimulus payment, people must have at least $3,000 in any combination of qualifying income from retirement, disability or survivors’ benefits from the Social Security Administration; disability compensation, disability pension or survivors’ benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs; Tier 1 benefits from Railroad Retirement, certain combat pay and earned income from wages, salaries, tips or net earnings from self-employment that are includible in taxable income. The mailing list of 20.5 million names represents Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefit recipients who did not file a tax return in 2006, allowing the IRS to directly target the special package to people likely to qualify for a stimulus payment but who may not otherwise file a tax return this year. The mailing, called Package 1040A-3, is separate from more than 130 million other economic stimulus letters (Notice 1377) being sent this month to taxpayers who filed tax returns in 2006. Generally, the special mailing does not include low-wage workers without a filing requirement who could qualify for economic stimulus payments. The IRS is working with numerous community, governmental organizations and charitable groups to reach low-income workers and their families. People in this category also need to fill out a tax form, preferably a simple Form 1040A. With so many people potentially unaware of the stimulus payments, Stiff encouraged people to reach out to help their friends and family members. “We don’t want anyone to fall through the cracks,” Stiff said. “People can help friends and family members by making them aware of the payments or helping fill out the forms. These forms are very simple. In just a few minutes you can complete the entire process by filling in just a few lines.” A sample Form 1040A is included in the tax package and is available at IRS.gov. People need to complete the lines for the mailing label and provide a Social Security number; the filing status (single or married) and exemptions (children younger than 17 and their Social Security numbers). People with earned income must complete Line 7 to report their 2007 annual income. Recipients of Social Security, VA and Railroad Retirement payments must complete Line 14a of Form 1040A to report their 2007 annual benefits. Certain recipients should have a Form SSA-1099 or Form RRB-1099 with that information. Or, people can multiply their 2007 monthly benefit by the number of months the payment was received for 2007 to estimate their annual benefit amount. The IRS encourages recipients to complete the direct deposit information on the Form 1040A if they have bank accounts. Direct deposit will be the easiest and fastest way to receive a payment. The IRS also encourages people to file their income tax return as soon as possible. The IRS will begin issuing economic stimulus payments starting in May. The IRS reminds taxpayers it does not gather information for stimulus payments over the telephone, and it does not send unsolicited e-mail to taxpayers about tax account matters. If taxpayers receive an unsolicited e-mail from someone claiming to be from the IRS, don't click on any links. People should forward it to phishing@irs.gov, and then delete it. The only official IRS Web site is located at www.irs.gov. To be eligible for economic stimulus payments, people must have valid Social Security numbers, have at least $3,000 in qualifying income and not be a dependent or eligible to be a dependent on someone else’s income tax return. For taxpayers who normally file an income tax return, the maximum stimulus payment is $600 ($1,200 for married couples), amounts that will phase out starting with adjusted gross income of $75,000 ($150,000 for married couples). For taxpayers who file a 2007 income tax return, the amount of the economic stimulus payment will be calculated automatically by the IRS.
Does Social Security recognize common law marriage for the purpose of paying survivors and spouse's benefits? Social Security follows the laws of the state where the worker was residing at the time of death or the place where the worker is residing when the spouse applies for benefits. In order for a common law marriage to be valid, it must have been contracted in a state where common-law marriages are recognized. Many states do not honor common-law marriages, so you should check local laws. However, most states (even those in which a man and woman could not enter into a valid common-law marriage) will generally recognize a common-law marriage validly entered into in another state. Again, check local laws.
I have never worked but my spouse has. What will my benefits be? You can be entitled to as much as one-half of your spouse's benefit amount when you reach full retirement age. If you want to get Social Security retirement benefits before you reach full retirement age, the amount of your benefit is reduced permanently. The amount of reduction depends on when you will reach full retirement age. For example: If your full retirement age is 65, you can get 37.5 percent of your spouse's unreduced benefit at age 62; If your full retirement age is 66, you can get 35 percent of your spouse's unreduced benefit at age 62; If your full retirement age is 67, you can get 32.5 percent of your spouse's unreduced benefit at age 62.
The amount of your benefit increases at later ages up to the maximum of 50 percent at full retirement age. If your full retirement age is other than those shown here, the amount of your benefit will fall between 32.5 percent and 37 percent at age 62. However, if you are taking care of a child who is under age 16 or who gets Social Security disability benefits, you get full benefits, regardless of age. Your spouse must file for benefits before you can begin receiving them on his or her record. You can get Medicare when you reach age 65 or, if you are disabled or have permanent kidney failure, you can get Medicare if you are younger than 65. Medicare provides hospital insurance, medical insurance and prescription drug coverage. Hospital insurance, sometimes called Part A, covers inpatient hospital care and certain follow-up care. Your spouse already has paid for it as part of his or her Social Security taxes while working. Medical insurance, sometimes called Part B, pays for physicians' services and some other services not covered by hospital insurance. Prescription drug coverage, sometimes called Part D, helps pay for medications doctors prescribe for treatment. Medical insurance and prescription drug coverage are optional, and you must pay monthly premiums. If you are already getting Social Security benefits when you turn 65, your Medicare starts automatically. If you are not getting Social Security, you should sign up for Medicare before your 65th birthday if your spouse is at least age 62 and has worked long enough.
How can I get a certified copy of a birth certificate? In general you may obtain a certified copy of a birth certificate by writing or visiting the Bureau of Vital Statistics in the State where you were born. For a complete listing of addresses by State, we recommend that you visit the National Center for Health Statistics website. Costs and requirements vary, so review the instructions on the website first.
Issue Number: TT-2008-44 Inside This Issue Beware of Tax Scams Don’t fall victim to tax scams. These schemes take several shapes, ranging from promises of large tax refunds to illegal ways of “untaxing” yourself. The IRS suggests that you remember three important guidelines: You are responsible and liable for the content of your tax return. Anyone who promises you a bigger refund without knowing your tax situation could be misleading you, and Never sign a tax return without looking it over to make sure it is accurate. Beware of these common schemes: Return Preparer Fraud: Dishonest tax return preparers can cause many headaches for taxpayers who fall victim to their ploys. Such preparers derive financial gain by skimming a portion of their clients’ refunds and charging inflated fees for return preparation services. They attract new clients by promising large refunds. Choose carefully when hiring a tax preparer. As the saying goes, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. No matter who prepares your tax return you are ultimately responsible for its accuracy and for any tax bill that may arise due to a questionable claim. Identity Theft: It pays to be choosy when it comes to disclosing personal information. Identity thieves have used stolen personal data to access financial accounts, run up charges on credit cards and apply for new loans. The IRS is aware of several identity theft scams involving taxes or scammers posing as the IRS itself. The IRS does not use e-mail to contact taxpayers about issues related to their accounts. If you have any doubt whether a contact from the IRS is authentic call 800-829-1040 to confirm it. Frivolous Arguments: Promoters have been known to make outlandish claims that the Sixteenth Amendment concerning congressional power to establish and collect income taxes was never ratified; that wages are not income; that filing a return and paying taxes are merely voluntary; and that being required to file Form 1040 violates the Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination or the Fourth Amendment right to privacy. Don’t believe these or other similar claims. Such arguments are false and have been thrown out of court. Taxpayers have the right to contest their tax liabilities in court, but no one has the right to disobey the law. For more information about these and other tax scams visit the IRS Web site at IRS.gov. Remember that for the genuine IRS Web site be sure to use .gov. Don't be confused by internet sites that end in .com, .net, .org or other designations instead of .gov. The address of the official IRS governmental Web site is IRS.gov.
Issue Number: IRS TAX TIP 2008-Special Edition Inside This Issue Don't miss out on your stimulus payment Are you wondering what to do to ensure that you receive your economic stimulus payment which the IRS will begin to send out this May? In most cases you will not have to do anything extra. If you are eligible for a payment, all you have to do is file a 2007 tax return and the IRS will do the rest. However, recipients of Social Security, certain Veterans' and Railroad Retirement benefits and low-income workers who don’t normally need to file may have to take steps to insure receipt of the stimulus payment. If you are in this group and normally would not be required to file a tax return, you need to file a 2007 tax return this year to receive an economic stimulus payment. The return must show at least $3000 in qualifying income. Qualifying income includes Social Security benefits, certain Railroad Retirement benefits, certain veterans’ benefits and earned income, such as income from wages, salaries, tips and self-employment. While these people may not be normally required to file a tax return because they do not meet the filing requirement, the IRS emphasizes they must file a 2007 return in order to receive a payment. The IRS has released a sample version of a Form 1040A that highlights the simple, specific sections of the return that can be filled out by people in these categories to qualify for a stimulus payment. For more information see IRS Fact Sheet FS 2008-16 Stimulus Payments: Instructions for Low-Income Workers and Recipients of Social Security and Certain Veterans’ Benefits available on www.irs.gov. Be aware that identity thieves are already pushing scams involving the stimulus payments. At least one telephone scam is making the rounds using the proposed rebates as bait. IRS news release IR-2008-11,”IRS Warns of New E-Mail and Telephone Scams Using the IRS Name; Advance Payment Scams Starting,” has more details. Remember that for the genuine IRS Web site be sure to use .gov. Don't be confused by internet sites that end in .com, .net, .org or other designations instead of .gov. The address of the official IRS governmental Web site is www .irs.gov.
My husband and I are both entitled to our own Social Security benefits. Will our combined benefits be reduced because we are married? ************************************************************ If both my spouse and I are entitled to benefits, is there any reduction? ************************************************************ If both my spouse and I are entitled to Social Security benefits, is there any reduction in our payments? When each member of a married couple works in employment covered under Social Security and they meet all other eligibility requirements to receive Social Security retirement benefits, their lifetime earnings are calculated independently to determine their Social Security benefit amounts. Therefore, each spouse receives a monthly benefit amount based on his or her own earnings. Couples are not penalized simply because they are married. If one member of the couple earned low wages or failed to earn enough Social Security credits (40) to be insured for retirement benefits, he or she may be eligible to receive benefits as a spouse.
When I start receiving benefits, will my benefit amount be the same for the rest of my life? Your benefit amount will not stay the same--generally, the benefit amount increases each year and protects beneficiaries against inflation. Social Security provides an annual cost-of-living increase that is based on the consumer price index. The 2008 increase for beneficiaries is 2.3 percent and the 2007 increase was 3.3 percent. There is another way that your benefit might increase. When you work, you continue to pay Social Security taxes, even though you are receiving benefits. And because you pay these taxes, Social Security refigures your benefits to take into account your extra earnings. If the worker's earnings for the year are higher than the earnings that were used in the original benefit computation, Social Security substitutes the new year of earnings. The higher your earnings, the more your refigured benefit might be. We can't tell you here how much your benefit will increase as each case is different and we recompute your benefit using your lifetime earnings. You need not take any special action. A recomputation of your benefits will be done automatically in the year following the close of the year in which you worked. We usually complete all recomputations by September of the following year (remember, employers do not report your income to us until February 28 of the year following the year of earnings). If you are entitled to a higher benefit, it is retroactive to January of the year after the year when you had the additional earnings.
Does a spouse, age 62, receive Medicare benefits when his/her aged 65 husband/wife does? Generally not. The minimum age for Medicare eligibility is 65. But, if you've been getting Social Security disability benefits for 24 months you can receive Medicare at any age.
What's the average monthly Social Security benefit for a retired worker? The average monthly Social Security benefit for a retired worker is about $1,050 as of the end of June 2007. Information on the estimated impact of the latest cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) on average monthly Social Security benefits can be found at. Effect of COLA on Social Security Benefits
Issue Number: IR-2008-015 Inside This Issue More Information on Stimulus Payments Posted to IRS.gov; New Details for Recipients of Social Security, Veterans Benefits WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service released additional information today about the upcoming economic stimulus payments in a specially designed section for taxpayers on IRS.gov. The new information includes an extensive set of Frequently Asked Questions about the stimulus payments, with a special emphasis on recipients of Social Security and certain veterans’ benefits. Millions of people in this group who normally don’t file a tax return will need to do so this year in order to receive a stimulus payment. For recipients of Social Security and certain veterans’ benefits and low-income workers who don’t normally need to file, the IRS also released a special version of a Form 1040A that highlights the simple, specific sections of the return that can be filled out by people in these categories to qualify for a stimulus payment. “Most taxpayers just need to file a 2007 tax return in order to automatically receive the stimulus payment,” said Acting IRS Commissioner Linda Stiff. “But we are especially concerned about recipients of Social Security and veterans’ benefits who may need to take special steps this year to file a tax return in order to obtain a stimulus payment. IRS.gov will help taxpayers get what they need.” The Frequently Asked Questions section – accessible through the front page of IRS.gov -- includes an extensive set of information for all taxpayers with questions about the stimulus payments, commonly referred to as rebates. The questions and answers include important information for low-income workers and certain recipients of Social Security, Railroad Retirement benefits and veterans’ benefits. The special IRS.gov section also features extensive examples of how much taxpayers can expect to receive in stimulus payments. The page includes more than two-dozen payment scenarios affecting different types of taxpayers. IRS.gov will be updated frequently to provide taxpayers with all they need to understand the stimulus payments. The IRS will begin sending taxpayers their economic stimulus payments in early May after the current tax season concludes. In most cases, the payment will equal the amount of tax liability on the tax return, with a maximum amount of $600 for individuals ($1,200 for married couples who file a joint return). Payments to more than 130 million households will continue over several weeks during the spring and summer. A payment schedule for taxpayers will be announced in the near future on IRS.gov. The IRS reminds taxpayers when they file their 2007 tax return to use direct deposit, which is the fastest way to get both regular refunds and stimulus payments. However, taxpayers who use Refund Anticipation Loans (RALs) or enter into any other loan or financial agreement with their tax professional cannot receive their stimulus payments by direct deposit and instead will get a paper check. The only way to receive a stimulus payment in 2008 is to file a 2007 tax return. The vast majority of taxpayers must take no extra steps to receive their stimulus payment beyond the routine filing of their tax return. No other action, extra form or call is necessary. Special Guidelines for Recipients of Certain Social Security, Veterans and Railroad Benefits Certain people who normally are not required to file but who are eligible for the stimulus payment will have to file a 2007 tax return. This includes low-income workers or those who receive Social Security benefits or veterans’ disability compensation, pension or survivors’ benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs in 2007. These taxpayers will be eligible to receive a payment of $300 ($600 on a joint return) if they had at least $3,000 of qualifying income. Qualifying income includes Social Security benefits, certain Railroad Retirement benefits, certain veterans’ benefits and earned income, such as income from wages, salaries, tips and self-employment. For taxpayers filing joint tax returns, only a total of $3,000 of qualifying income from both spouses is required to be eligible for a payment. The special version of the Form 1040A unveiled today on IRS.gov shows taxpayers in these groups the specific sections of the form they need to fill out to qualify for the stimulus payment. The mock-up is designed to be used as a guide for filling out an actual Form 1040A. “People who don’t normally need to file have a roadmap on how to fill out the Form 1040A quickly and easily,” Stiff said. “We encourage recipients of Social Security and veterans’ benefits who don’t normally need to file a tax return to use this mock-up of the form as a guide to help them get their stimulus payment.” The Form 1040A illustration on IRS.gov shows the limited number of lines that will need to be filled out for recipients of Social Security, certain Railroad Retirement and certain veterans’ benefits. A key line is reporting their 2007 benefits on Line 14a of Form 1040A. The IRS reminds taxpayers they can also use Line 20a on Form 1040 to report these same benefits. In addition, taxpayers in these groups should write the words “Stimulus Payment” at the top of the 1040A or 1040. For now, taxpayers in this group filing a tax return can only file a paper copy of the Form 1040 or Form 1040A. The IRS is working to update its systems to accept electronic versions of these limited-information returns for taxpayers who otherwise have no need to file a tax return. The IRS is also working with the software community to handle these returns electronically at a future date. The IRS also reminded taxpayers with Social Security, Railroad Retirement or veterans’ benefits who have already filed but did not report their qualifying benefits on either Line 14a of Form 1040A or Line 20a of Form 1040 that they may need to file an amended return in some situations to receive a larger stimulus payment. Taxpayers who already have filed but did not report these benefits can file an amended return by using Form 1040X, which can only be filed with a paper form. The IRS reminded taxpayers who don’t have any other requirement to file a tax return that submitting a tax return to qualify for the economic stimulus payments does not create any additional tax or trigger a tax bill. In addition, the stimulus payments will not have any effect on eligibility for federal benefits. The IRS is working with the Social Security Administration and Department of Veterans Affairs and other organizations to ensure that recipients are aware of the need to file a tax return to receive their stimulus payment in 2008.
Right-click to download Real World Economics: For High School Seniors, College Students and New Entrants To The Workforce. It's Free-It's Instant
You will need Adobe Reader (the latest version is recommended) installed on your computer in order to open and read this ebook. You can get Adobe Reader here (a new window will open so you can download it without leaving this page). If you want to open the file in your browser window, just click on the link. However, if you want to download the file to view later, then right-click on the link and choose "Save Target As" if you are using Internet Explorer or "Save Link As" if you are using Mozilla. Some Browsers use "Save File as" Then select where you want to save the file on your hard drive. Once you have saved the file, locate where you saved it, and double click to open.
One of the main features is an outline of a plan for getting 25 to 30 year olds elected to congress.
This is in no way an endorsement of Ron Paul. It is to show that a 25 year old with the same message of bringing the "federal monster" under control could raise enough money for a successful campaign. JFK is featured quite prominently in this Ebook. His tax cuts gave us one of the best economies in the history of America. You should find his economic philosophy both informative and illuminating.
How much is a working widow allowed to earn without losing any Social Security widow's benefits? The law that determines what happens when you work and get benefits at the same time was changed, effective January 2000. This change in law applies to widow(er)s as well as retired workers. While you're working, your benefit amount will be reduced only until you reach your full retirement age. Full retirement age for earnings test purposes is currently age 65 and 10 months for persons born 1/2/42 through 1/1/43. We will use this formula to determine how much your benefit must be reduced: If you are under full retirement age when you start getting your Social Security payments, $1 in benefits will be deducted for each $2 you earn above the annual limit. For 2008 that limit is $13,560; for 2007, it is $12,960. In the year you reach your full retirement age $1 in benefits will be deducted for each $3 you earn above a different limit. In that year, we only count earnings before the month you reach your full benefit retirement age. For 2008, this other limit is $36,120; for 2007, it is $34,440. Starting with the month you reach full retirement age you will get your benefits with NO limit on your earnings. For information on the earnings limits for prior years, see Exempt Amounts Under the Earnings Test. Please Note: Earned income is defined as income from wages or net earnings from self-employment. Pensions, 401K distributions, dividends, interest, and IRA distributions are NOT earned income.
Right-click to download Real World Economics: For High School Seniors College Students and New Entrants To The Workforce. It's Free-It's Instant
You will need Adobe Reader (the latest version is recommended) installed on your computer in order to open and read this ebook. You can get Adobe Reader here (a new window will open so you can download it without leaving this page). If you want to open the file in your browser window, just click on the link. However, if you want to download the file to view later, then right-click on the link and choose "Save Target As" if you are using Internet Explorer or "Save Link As" if you are using Mozilla. Some Browsers use "Save File as" Then select where you want to save the file on your hard drive. Once you have saved the file, locate where you saved it, and double click to open.
One of the main features is an outline of a plan for getting 25 to 30 year olds elected to congress.
This is in no way an endorsement of Ron Paul. It does, however, show the desire for limiting the size and scope of the federal government and how much money can be raised due to this message.
If I remarry, after being married 10 years, which spouse receives benefits? A former spouse can receive benefits under the same circumstances as a current spouse or widow/widower if the marriage lasted 10 years or more. Benefits paid to a surviving divorced spouse will not affect the benefit rates for other beneficiaries. Please note that in general, a person applying as a widow/widower cannot receive benefits if they remarry before the age of 60 (50 if disabled) unless the latter marriage ends, whether by death, divorce, or annulment. However, remarriage after age 60 (50 if disabled) will not prevent payments on a former spouse's record.
How do I apply for Retirement benefits? When To Apply
Generally, people should apply for retirement benefits no more than four months before they want to begin. Even if you are not ready to start receiving your benefits, you should still sign up for Medicare three months before age 65.
How To Apply You can apply for retirement benefits online. Go to the Social Security Benefit Application and click on “Apply for Retirement/Disability/Spouse’s Benefits.” Fill in the answers to the application questions on your computer screen and select the “Sign Now” button to send us the application. You can also apply by calling our toll-free number, 1-800-772-1213. Our representatives there can make an appointment for your application to be taken over the telephone or at any convenient Social Security office. If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you may call our toll-free TTY number, 1-800-325-0778, between 7 A.M. and 7 P.M., Monday through Friday.
###
My brother had an accident at work last year and is now receiving Social Security disability benefits for himself, his wife, and daughter. Before his accident, he helped support another daughter by a woman to whom he has never been married. Is the second child entitled to some benefits as well? Even though your brother wasn't married to the second child's mother, the child may qualify for Social Security benefits. An application should be filed on her behalf and if eligible, both children would receive equal benefits.
How long does a person need to work to become eligible for retirement benefits? Everyone born in 1929 or later needs 40 Social Security credits to be eligible for retirement benefits. You can earn up to four credits per year, so you will need at least 10 years to become eligible for retirement benefits. During your working years, earnings covered by social security are posted to your Social Security record, and you earn credits based on those earnings. Each year the amount of earnings needed for a credit rises as average earnings levels rise. In 2008, you receive one credit for each $1,050 of earnings, up to the maximum of four credits per year. For 2007, you receive one credit for each $1,000 of earnings. If you become disabled or die before age 62, the number of credits needed depends on your age at the time you die or become disabled. A minimum of 6 credits is required regardless of your age. You can file for retirement benefits online.
How long must I be married to collect benefits when a spouse dies? Generally, a person can qualify for widow's or widower's benefits if he or she was married to the deceased worker for at least nine months just before the worker died. However, you do not need to be married to the worker for any specific length of time if: You are the biological parent of the worker's biological child; You legally adopted the worker’s child while you were married to him or her and before the child attained age 18; You are the parent of a child who was legally adopted by the worker while you and the worker were married and before the child attained age 18; You and the worker were married and both of you legally adopted a child under age 18; You were entitled or potentially entitled to spouse’s, widow(er)’s, mother/father’s, or parent’s benefits, or to childhood disability benefits in the month before the month you married the deceased worker; You were entitled or potentially entitled to a widow(er)’s, child's (age 18 or over) or parent’s insurance annuity under the Railroad Retirement Act (RRA) in the month before you married the deceased worker; The worker was married previously to an institutionalized spouse, but was not allowed to divorce him or her under State law. After the spouse died, he or she married you within 60 days; You were married to the worker at the time his or her death and you had been married to and divorced from him or her before and the previous marriage lasted 9 months; The worker’s death occurred in the line of duty while he or she was a member of a uniformed service serving on active duty; or The worker’s death was accidental. (Note: The worker’s death is considered “accidental” only if he or she received bodily injuries through violent, external and accidental means and, as a direct result of the bodily injuries and independent of all other causes, died within 3 months after the day he or she received the injuries.) If the worker could not reasonably have been expected to live for nine months at the time you married him or her, then you cannot qualify for benefits under the last three conditions.
What is the earliest age that I can begin receiving retirement benefits? The earliest age at which you can begin getting Social Security retirement benefits is 62. The 1983 Social Security Amendments included a provision for raising the retirement age beginning with persons born in 1938 or later, but does not affect the minimum age for retirement, still age 62. You will receive a reduced benefit if you elect benefits prior to your full retirement age. See details on the amount of this reduction. The earliest age at which you can be entitled to Medicare is 65. (You can be entitled to Medicare at an earlier age only if you are entitled to Social Security disability benefits.) See more information on the increase in the full retirement age.
Full-retirement age has been 65 for many years. However, beginning with people born in 1938 or later, that age will gradually increase until it reaches 67 for people born after 1959.
Will a student attending college be eligible to receive benefits? No. At one time, SSA did pay benefits to eligible college students, but the law changed in 1981. We now pay benefits only to students taking courses at grade 12 or below. Normally, benefits stop when a child reaches age 18 unless he or she is disabled. However, if the child is still a full-time student at a secondary (or elementary) school at age 18, benefits generally can continue until he or she graduates or until two months after he or she reaches age 19, whichever is first.
How do I receive the Lump Sum Death Payment after a relative dies? A lump-sum death benefit of $255 may be paid upon the death of a person who has worked long enough to be insured under the Social Security program. The lump-sum death benefit can be paid upon the death of the insured person even if they were not receiving retirement or disability benefits at the time of death. A one-time payment of $255 is payable to the surviving spouse if he or she was living with the beneficiary at the time of death, OR if living apart, was eligible for Social Security benefits on the beneficiary's earnings record for the month of death. If there is no surviving spouse, the payment is made to a child who was eligible for benefits on the beneficiary's earnings record in the month of death. If no spouse or child meeting these requirements exists, then the lump sum death payment will not be paid. The lump sum death payment can not be paid to funeral homes for funeral expenses. To file for the benefit, call 1-800-772-1213 and request an appointment for your local office. You must file the application for the lump-sum death payment within the two-year period ending with the second anniversary of the insured person's death.
What are the requirements for a survivor to receive Social Security benefits? In order to receive survivors benefits, the deceased worker must have earned the required number of Social Security credits and survivors must meet the following requirements: * A widow or widower may be able to receive full benefits at age 65 if born before 1940. (The age to receive full benefits is gradually increasing to age 67 for widows and widowers born in 1940 or later.) Reduced widow or widower benefits can be received as early as age 60. If the surviving spouse is disabled, benefits can begin as early as age 50. For more information on widows, widowers and other survivors, visit Widows, Widowers & Other Survivors. A widow or widower can receive benefits at any age if she or he takes care of the deceased worker's child who is entitled to a child's benefit and is younger than age 16 or disabled. A deceased worker's unmarried children who are younger than age 18 (or up to age 19 if they are attending elementary or secondary school full time) also can receive benefits. Children can get benefits at any age if they were disabled before age 22 and remain disabled. Under certain circumstances, benefits also can be paid to stepchildren, grandchildren or adopted children. A deceased worker's dependent parents can receive benefits if they are age 62 or older. (For parents to qualify as dependents, the deceased worker would have had to provide at least one-half of their support.) A deceased worker's former wife or husband who is age 60 or older (as early as age 50 if disabled) can get benefits if the marriage lasted at least 10 years. A former spouse, however, does not have to meet the age or length-of-marriage rule if he or she is caring for his/her child who is younger than age 16 or who is disabled and also entitled based on the deceased worker's work. The child must be the deceased worker's former spouse's natural or legally adopted child. For more information on survivors benefits, see our publication "Survivors Benefits".
Can my spouse collect benefits at age 62 from her work and earnings and then receive a combined total up to 50 per cent from my account when I start receiving benefits at age 65? Your wife can start receiving reduced retirement benefits on her own record at age 62. If the amount she receives on her own record is less than what she would be entitled to as a spouse, she would receive a higher spouse's benefit when you start receiving benefits. However, because she began receiving Social Security before reaching full retirement age, she will receive a reduced benefit rate that is less than the full 50 percent amount for as long as she remains entitled to spouse's benefits. When your spouse applies for reduced retirement benefits, we will check to see if she is eligible for both her own retirement benefits and for benefits as a spouse. If she is eligible for both, we will pay her own benefits first. If she is due additional benefits, she will get a combination of benefits equaling the higher spouse's benefit. If she is not eligible for both because you are not yet entitled, but is due a higher amount when you start receiving Social Security benefits, then the higher spouse's benefit is payable to her when you apply for retirement benefits. Remember, she cannot receive spouse's benefits until you file for retirement. If I retire at age 62 will I be eligible for Medicare at that time? No. Medicare benefits based on retirement do not begin until a person is age 65. If you retire at age 62, you may be able to continue to have medical insurance coverage through your employer or purchase it from a private insurance company until you turn age 65 and become eligible for Medicare. For more information about who can get Medicare see Medicare, publication number 05-10043 .
I am full retirement age (FRA) and still working. Do I have to report my earnings to Social Security? When you reach FRA you no longer need to report your earnings to Social Security. Find your full retirement age here. You do, however, need to report earnings for those months in the calendar year before the month you reach FRA. For example, if you reach FRA in May, you would need to report your earnings for the four earlier months. The law also changed the annual earnings limit for workers who reach FRA during the year. During those months before you reach FRA, your benefits would be reduced $1 for each $3 you earned over the limit which is $34,440 in 2007 and $36,120 in 2008.
What is the minimum Social Security amount payable? There is no minimum monthly Social Security benefit, although for administrative reasons, we will not pay a benefit of less than $1.00. However, to receive any amount of Social Security benefits, you must have the minimum amount of work credits. Everyone born in 1929 or later needs 40 credits to be eligible for retirement benefits. Therefore since you can earn four credits per year, you will need at least 10 years of work to become eligible for retirement benefits.
How much will a widow receive? The amount you will get is a percentage of the deceased's basic Social Security benefit. The percentage depends on your age and the type of benefit you are eligible for. A widow or widower, full retirement age or older, will receive 100 percent deceased's basic Social Security benefit. A widow or widower can receive full benefits at age 65 or older (if born before January 2, 1940) or reduced benefits as early as age 60. The age for receiving full benefits is increasing for widows and widowers born after 1939 until it reaches age 67 for people born in 1962 and later.
How much can a divorced spouse receive? A man/woman who is divorced after at least 10 years of marriage keeps certain benefit rights on their former husband/wife's Social Security record. In order for him/her to get benefits, a divorced husband/wife must be at least age 62 and the former spouse must be eligible for benefits, but not necessarily receiving them. The maximum benefit is 50% of the benefit the worker would receive at full retirement age. However, benefits paid prior to full retirement age of the spouse are reduced based upon the age of the spouse at the time benefits are received.
###
What are the benefit amounts a husband or wife may be entitled to receive? A spouse receives one-half of the retired worker's full benefit unless the spouse begins collecting benefits before full retirement age. In that case, the amount of the spouse's benefit is permanently reduced by a percentage based on the number of months before he/she reaches full retirement age. For example, based on the full retirement age of 65, if a spouse begins collecting benefits : At 64, the benefit amount would be about 46 percent of the retired worker's full benefit. At age 63, it would be about 42 percent, and At age 62, 37.5 percent. However, if a spouse is taking care of a child who is either under age 16 or disabled and receiving Social Security benefits, a spouse gets full (one-half) benefits, regardless of age. If you are eligible for both your own retirement benefit and for benefits as a spouse, we always pay your own benefit first. If your benefit as a spouse is higher than your retirement benefit, you'll receive a combination of benefits equaling the higher spouse's benefit. What is Full Retirement Age? Full-retirement age has been 65 for many years. However, beginning with people born in 1938 or later, that age will gradually increase until it reaches 67 for people born after 1959
My wife doesn't have enough work to qualify for Social Security or Medicare. Can she qualify on my record? The question you've raised applies to husbands as well as wives. Even if he or she has never worked under Social Security, your spouse at full retirement age can receive a benefit equal to one-half of your full retirement amount. (If your spouse will receive a pension for work not covered by Social Security such as government foreign employment, the amount of his or her Social Security benefits on your record may be reduced. Take a look at the fact sheet, Government Pension Offset for more information.) Your spouse can begin collecting the benefits as early as age 62, but the amount will be permanently reduced by a percentage based on the number of months up to his or her full retirement age. Your spouse who is caring for your child who is also receiving benefits can receive the full one-half benefit amount no matter what his or her age is. Your spouse would receive these benefits until the child reaches age 16. At that time, the child's benefits continue, but your spouse's benefits stop unless he or she is old enough to receive retirement benefits (age 62 or older) or survivor benefits as a widow or widower (age 60). If your spouse has also worked under Social Security--If your spouse is eligible for retirement benefits on his or her own record, we will always pay that amount first. But if the spouse benefit on your record is a higher amount, he or she will get a combination of benefits that equals that higher amount. It doesn't matter if your spouse starts getting benefits before, after, or at the same time you do--we will check both records to make sure that your spouse gets the higher amount whenever he or she becomes entitled to it. NOTE: A spouse cannot begin receiving benefits until the number holder is receiving benefits.
Can I receive Social Security benefits and SSI?
You may be able to receive SSI in addition to monthly Social Security benefits, if your Social Security benefit is low enough to qualify. The amount of your SSI benefit depends on where you live. The basic SSI check is the same nationwide. Effective January 2008, the SSI payment for an eligible individual is $637 per month and $956 per month for an eligible couple. However, many states add money to the basic check. Following is a list of some States that supplement the basic SSI amount. * California * Hawaii * Massachusetts * Nevada * New Jersey * New York * Pennsylvania * Rhode Island * Vermont * Washington D.C. If you get SSI, you also may be able to get other help from your state or county. For example, you may be able to get Medicaid, food stamps, or some other social services. For information about all the services available in your community, call your local social services department or public welfare office. For complete information on the eligibility requirements for SSI, you should read Social Security pamphlet "Supplemental Security Income". You should call our toll-free number, 1-800-772-1213, to find out if you might be eligible for SSI in your state.
When a Social Security beneficiary dies, does the funeral home notify Social Security or is notification up to the family? But, family members of a deceased individual still have the legal responsibility to notify Social Security. For information on what action to take when a beneficiary dies, see What To Do When A Beneficiary Dies. To google the Social Security Administration just type in SSA.
Apologies if you regularly check some of these pages for updates.
How does a divorced spouse qualify for benefits? A person can receive benefits as a divorced spouse on a former spouse’s Social Security record if he or she: was married to the former spouse for at least 10 years; is at least age 62 years old; is unmarried; is not entitled to a higher Social Security benefit on his or her own record. In addition, the former spouse must be entitled to receive his or her own retirement or disability benefit. If the former spouse is eligible for a benefit, but has not yet applied for it, the divorced spouse can still receive a benefit if he or she meets the eligibility requirements above and has been divorced from the former spouse for at least two years. Generally, benefits cannot continue to be paid if the divorced spouse remarries someone other than the former spouse, unless the latter marriage ends (whether by death, divorce, or annulment), or the marriage is to a person entitled to certain types of Social Security auxiliary or survivor's benefits. A person can receive benefits as a surviving divorced spouse on the Social Security record of a former spouse who died fully insured, if he or she: is at least age 60, or age 50 and disabled; was married to the former spouse for at least 10 years; and is not entitled to a higher Social Security benefit on his or her own record. If the surviving divorced spouse age 60 or over applying for benefits remarried after age 60, or after age 50 and at the time of remarriage was entitled to disability benefits, the marriage is disregarded. If a person is already entitled to benefits as an aged or disabled surviving divorced spouse and remarries, benefits continue regardless of the person's age at the time of remarriage. The benefits paid to a divorced spouse or a surviving divorced spouse will not affect the benefit amount paid to other family members who receive benefits on the same record. If you would like to receive an estimate of benefits you may receive as a divorced spouse or a surviving divorced spouse, you may contact our representatives at our toll-free number, 1-800-772-1213. They may be able to provide you with this information over the telephone. If you prefer, you may visit one of our offices. You can get the address and directions to your nearest office from the Social Security Office Locator that is available on the Internet.
What are the requirements for a survivor to receive Social Security benefits? In order to receive survivors benefits, the deceased worker must have earned the required number of Social Security credits and survivors must meet the following requirements: A widow or widower may be able to receive full benefits at age 65 if born before 1940.
The age to receive full benefits is gradually increasing to age 67 for widows and widowers born in 1940 or later.)
Reduced widow or widower benefits can be received as early as age 60. If the surviving spouse is disabled, benefits can begin as early as age 50. For more information on widows, widowers and other survivors, visit Widows, Widowers & Other Survivors. A widow or widower can receive benefits at any age if she or he takes care of the deceased worker's child who is entitled to a child's benefit and is younger than age 16 or disabled. A deceased worker's unmarried children who are younger than age 18 (or up to age 19 if they are attending elementary or secondary school full time) also can receive benefits. Children can get benefits at any age if they were disabled before age 22 and remain disabled. Under certain circumstances, benefits also can be paid to stepchildren, grandchildren or adopted children. A deceased worker's dependent parents can receive benefits if they are age 62 or older. (For parents to qualify as dependents, the deceased worker would have had to provide at least one-half of their support.) A deceased worker's former wife or husband who is age 60 or older (as early as age 50 if disabled) can get benefits if the marriage lasted at least 10 years. A former spouse, however, does not have to meet the age or length-of-marriage rule if he or she is caring for his/her child who is younger than age 16 or who is disabled and also entitled based on the deceased worker's work. The child must be the deceased worker's former spouse's natural or legally adopted child. For more information on survivors benefits, see our publication "Survivors Benefits".
Can I receive reduced retirement benefits at age 62 under my record then at full retirement age receive full spouse's benefits? If you choose to receive a reduced benefit before full retirement age on your own record, you are not entitled to the full spouse's benefit rate upon reaching full retirement age, and a reduced benefit rate is payable for as long as you remain entitled to spouse's benefits. When you apply for reduced retirement benefits, we will check to see if you are eligible for both your own retirement benefits and for benefits as a spouse. If you are eligible for both, we always pay your own benefits first. If you are due additional benefits, you will get a combination of benefits equaling the higher spouse's benefit. If you are not eligible for both because your spouse is not yet entitled, but you are due a higher amount when he or she starts receiving Social Security benefits, then the higher spouse's benefit is payable to you when your spouse applies for retirement benefits. Remember, you cannot receive spouse's benefits until your spouse files for retirement.
What is the maximum Social Security retirement benefit? The maximum benefit depends on the age at which a worker chooses to retire. The amount for 2008 for a person retiring at full retirement age (65 years and 10 months) is $2,185. This is based on earnings at the maximum taxable amount for every year after age 21. You can see the maximum amount of taxable earnings for each year at Contribution and Benefit Base. If a husband and wife retire, each receives his or her own benefit amount. Social Security imposes no "marriage penalty" when two members of a couple are each entitled on their own earnings record. You can file for retirement benefits online.
Apologies if you regularly check some of these pages for updates.
Are my retirement benefits figured on my last five years of earnings? Social Security benefits are based on earnings averaged over most of a worker's lifetime. Your actual earnings are first adjusted or "indexed" to account for changes in average wages since the year the earnings were received. Then we calculate your average monthly indexed earnings during the 35 years in which you earned the most. We apply a formula to these earnings and arrive at your basic benefit, or "primary insurance amount" (PIA). This is the amount you would receive at your full retirement age, for most people, age 65. However, beginning with people born in 1938 or later, that age will gradually increase until it reaches 67 for people born after 1959. For more information, see The Full Retirement Age is Increasing. As you can see from the above, the benefit computation is complex and there are no simple tables that we can present that will tell you how much you will receive. However, there are several ways you can determine an estimate of your retirement benefits: 1. Request a Social Security Statement. Make your request over the Internet and we will mail you a detailed report of your lifetime earnings and an estimate of retirement, disability and dependent benefits. 2. Compute your own benefit estimate using a program that you can download for your PC. A version for the Mac is available. 3. Use our online calculator. 4. See examples of how benefits are computed at Benefit Calculation Examples. 5. See our publication, Your Retirement Benefit: How It Is Figured.
Can I apply for Social Security benefits on the Internet? Yes. You can apply for Social Security Retirement benefits, Spouse's benefits or Disability benefits online. When your application is received in your local social security office, we will make sure that we have all the information we need to make a decision on your claim. You will find helpful links to all the online forms you need to apply for disability benefits. Reviewing and collecting the information shown in the Disability Starter Kit will help prepare you for your disability interview or help you to complete your online Disability Report. The Disability Report Form asks for information about your conditions or impairments that prevent you from working. To prepare for filing retirement benefits, see How to Apply for Retirement Benefits. At this time, you cannot apply for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits online. If you wish to file for SSI benefits (aged, blind or disabled), contact the Social Security Administration immediately at 1-800-772-1213, so that you do not lose any potential benefits. If you are filing for SSI disability for an adult or a child, you can complete the Disability Report online. You can also view the Fact Sheet and Checklist in the Disability Starter Kit to see what information you will need and the kinds of questions we will ask when you have your disability interview in your local Social Security office or over the phone. Call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) or visit your local Social Security office right away so that you do not lose potential benefits, even if you complete the Disability Report online.
What do the letters after a Social Security or Medicare number mean? The codes following a Social Security number indicate the type of benefits you are entitled to. The Social Security number followed by one of these codes is often referred to as a claim number and they are only assigned once you apply for benefits. These letter codes may appear on correspondence that you receive from Soical Security or on your Medicare card. They will never appear on a Social Security number card. For example, if your Social Security number is 123-45-6789, then once you apply for retirement benefits, your claim number is 123-45-6789A. This number will also be used as your Medicare claim number, once you are eligible for Medicare.
How is "unearned income" defined for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) purposes? "Unearned income" is all income that is not earned from your job or from your business. Some common types of unearned income are: * The value of food or shelter that someone gives you, or the amount of money they give you to help pay for them; * Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits; * Railroad retirement and railroad unemployment benefits; * Annuities, pensions from any government or private source, workers' compensation, unemployment insurance benefits, black lung benefits and Social Security benefits; * Prizes, settlements and awards, including court-ordered awards; * Proceeds of life insurance policies; * Gifts and contributions; * Support and alimony payments; * Inheritances in cash or property; * Rental income; and * Strike pay and other benefits from unions.
If I am on Supplemental Security Income (SSI) disability, what is the affect on my benefits if I work? Unlike Social Security disability, there is no trial work period for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) disability beneficiaries. For someone who is working, the first $65 ($85 if the person has no other income in a month) of earnings in a month are disregarded. After that we consider $1 for every $2 the person earns in a month. We also deduct from the monthly earnings any monthly expenses that a person, who has a disability, has which are needed by the person to work, are related to the person's impairment and paid by the person. These expenses are deducted before we apply the $1 for $2 computation. For someone who is blind, we deduct any expenses the person has in order to work that are paid by the person. This amount is deducted from the earnings after the $1 for $2 computation from the monthly earnings. The remaining earnings are added to any other income the person receives in a month, such as a pension or unemployment insurance, and the result is deducted from the federal benefit rate, which is $637 a month for 2008 ($623 for 2007). If the person has only earnings, and doesn't pay for any expenses to work as mentioned, the person can earn up to $1,359 in a month in 2008 ($1,331 in 2007) before the person's SSI federal cash payments stop. For States in which SSA administers a supplement to the federal SSI benefit, the person can earn even more before cash payments stop. Even if cash payments stop, the person can remain eligible for SSI benefits, which in most states also means that the person is eligible for Medicaid, if the person's earnings are below certain levels that factor in the resident state's per capita or the person's medical and personal attendant costs. If the person's earnings don't permit continued eligibility after considering these costs for the person, the person may become eligible for SSI benefits again without filing a new application if the person's earnings decrease during the following 12 months.
What is a "living arrangement" for Supplemental Security Income (SSI)? A "living arrangement" for SSI refers to where a recipient lives, who else is in the household, and what the recipient and others pay towards the household expenses. Owning a home and renting are types of living arrangements. Living in an institution is another type of living arrangement. The SSI beneficiary's living arrangement can affect the SSI payment amount. For example, a beneficiary's SSI payment may be reduced by up to one-third if the recipient receives food or shelter that is paid for by another person.
How do I apply for Supplemental Security Income benefits? You may apply for SSI benefits by calling our toll free number (1-800-772-1213) between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Monday through Friday and making an appointment. You may choose to apply for benefits either by phone or in person at a local Social Security office. One of our representatives will help you apply for the benefits. Please have your Social Security number handy when you call us. If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you may call our TTY number, 1-800-325-0778 during the same hours. You may also visit an office to apply without making an appointment, but you may have to wait to speak to a representative. If you need a language interpreter, we will provide free interpreter services to help you conduct your Social Security business over the phone or in any Social Security office.
Can I receive Social Security benefits and SSI? You may be able to receive SSI in addition to monthly Social Security benefits, if your Social Security benefit is low enough to qualify. The amount of your SSI benefit depends on where you live. The basic SSI check is the same nationwide. Effective January 2008, the SSI payment for an eligible individual is $637 per month and $956 per month for an eligible couple. However, many states add money to the basic check. Following is a list of some States that supplement the basic SSI amount with a link to more information about that State: * California * Hawaii
* Massachusetts * Nevada * New Jersey * New York * Pennsylvania * Rhode Island * Vermont * Washington D.C. If you get SSI, you also may be able to get other help from your state or county. For example, you may be able to get Medicaid, food stamps, or some other social services. For information about all the services available in your community, call your local social services department or public welfare office. For complete information on the eligibility requirements for SSI, you should read Social Security pamphlet "Supplemental Security Income". You should call our toll-free number, 1-800-772-1213, to find out if you might be eligible for SSI in your state.
How do I apply for Food Stamps? The Food Stamp program is administered by the Department of Agriculture. For more information on the program see the Food Stamps web site. ### What is the relationship between SSI and Medicaid? Medicaid is a jointly funded, Federal-State health insurance program for low-income and needy people. It covers children, the aged, blind, and/or disabled and other people who are eligible to receive federally assisted income maintenance payments. Thirty-two states and the District of Columbia provide Medicaid eligibility to people eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI ) benefits. In these States, the SSI application is also the Medicaid application. Medicaid eligibility starts the same months as SSI eligibility. The following jurisdictions use the same rules to decide eligibility for Medicaid as SSA uses for SSI, but require the filing of a separate application: Alaska, Idaho, Kansas, Nebraska, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Northern Mariana Islands. The following States use their own eligibility rules for Medicaid, which are different from SSA's SSI rules. In these States a separate application for Medicaid must be filed: Connecticut, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Virginia.
How do I apply for Medicaid? The Medicaid Program - General Medicaid is a medical assistance program that is partially funded by the Federal Government but run by each State. Medicaid pays for basic medical care for people and families with low incomes and resources. People who are blind or disabled, age 65 or older, children, or members of families with dependent children may be eligible. Using broad Federal guidelines, each State runs its own Medicaid program. The State decides who is eligible and the amount of medical care and services it will cover. Representatives in your local public assistance office can tell you about eligibility for Medicaid and whether you qualify. You may also want to ask them about other assistance in your community for which you may be eligible. For more information on the Medicaid program, see http://www.cms.hhs.gov/medicaid/ Medicaid for SSI Recipients Thirty-two states and the District of Columbia provide Medicaid to people eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). In these States, the SSI application is also the Medicaid application. Medicaid eligibility usually starts the same month as SSI eligibility, but in certain circumstances can also be retroactive for up to three months. The following jurisdictions use the same rules to decide eligibility for Medicaid as SSA uses for SSI, but require filing a separate application: Alaska, Idaho, Kansas, Nebraska, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Northern Mariana Islands The following States use their own eligibility rules for Medicaid, which are different from SSA's SSI rules. In these States a separate application for Medicaid must be filed: Connecticut, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Virginia. For more information, see Medicaid for SSI recipients.
How much will I receive in SSI benefits?
The amount of your SSI benefit depends, inpart, on where you live. The basic SSI check is the same nationwide. Effective January 2008, the SSI payment for an eligible individual is $637 per month and $956 per month for an eligible couple. For January 2007, the SSI payment for an eligible individual was $623 per month and $934 per month for an eligible couple. However, many states add money to the basic check. If a state provides a supplement which Social Security includes in the SSI check then your application for SSI in that state includes the state supplement. Following is a list of states that supplement the basic SSI amount. California Hawaii Massachusetts Nevada New Jersey New York Pennsylvania Rhode Island Vermont Washington D.C. Other states administer their own supplemental payments. In those states, you must apply for the supplement at the state agency. If you get SSI, you also may be able to get other help from your state or county. For example, you may be able to get Medicaid, food stamps, or some other social services. For information about all the services available in your community, call your local social services department or public welfare office. For more information, you should read Social Security publication Supplemental Security Income. Retirement Benefits
###
Do disabled children qualify for benefits? There are two Social Security disability programs that include disabled children. Under the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program, a child from birth to age 18 may receive monthly payments based on disability or blindness if: * He or she has an impairment or combination of impairments that meets the definition of disability for children and * the income and resources of the parents and the child are within the allowed limits. Under the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program, an adult child (a person age 18 or older) may receive monthly benefits based on disability or blindness if: * He or she has an impairment or combination of impairments that meets the definition of disability for adults; and * the disability began before age 22; and * the adult child's parent worked long enough to be insured under Social Security and is receiving retirement or disability benefits or is deceased. Under both of these programs, the child must not be doing any "substantial" work, and must have a medical condition that has lasted or is expected either to last for at least 12 months or to result in death. You will find helpful links to the online forms and the steps you need to take to apply for childhood disability benefits at www.socialsecurity.gov/applyfordisability. At this time, you cannot complete an application for SSI childhood disability online, but you can complete the Child Disability Report Form online. You can also view the Fact Sheet and Checklist in the Child Disability Starter Kit to see what information you will need and the kinds of questions we will ask when you have your disability interview in your local Social Security office or over the phone. The Disability Report asks for information about the child's conditions or impairments. Call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) or visit your local Social Security office right away so that you do not lose potential benefits, even if you complete the Disability Report Form online.
What is the difference between Social Security disability and SSI disability? The Social Security Administration is responsible for two major programs that provide benefits based on disability: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), which is based on prior work under Social Security, and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Under SSI, payments are made on the basis of financial need. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is financed with Social Security taxes paid by workers, employers, and self-employed persons. To be eligible for a Social Security benefit, the worker must earn sufficient credits based on taxable work to be "insured" for Social Security purposes. Disability benefits are payable to blind or disabled workers, widow(er)s, or adults disabled since childhood, who are otherwise eligible. The amount of the monthly disability benefit is based on the Social Security earnings record of the insured worker. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a program financed through general revenues. SSI disability benefits are payable to adults or children who are disabled or blind, have limited income and resources, meet the living arrangement requirements, and are otherwise eligible. The monthly payment varies up to the maximum federal benefit rate, which may be supplemented by the State or decreased by countable income and resources. See Understanding Supplemental Security Income for an explanation of SSI benefit payment rates. Retirement Benefits
###
What are the requirements to receive Medicare benefits? There are many ways to qualify for Medicare. There are two parts of Medicare, each of which has its own requirements:Hospital Insurance (also known as Part A)If You Are 65 or Older Most people 65 or older are eligible for Medicare hospital insurance (Part A) based on their own—or their spouse's— employment. You are eligible at 65 if you: * receive Social Security or railroad retirement benefits; * are not getting Social Security or railroad retirement benefits, but you have worked long enough to be eligible for them; * would be entitled to Social Security benefits based on your spouse's (or divorced spouse's) work record, and that spouse is at least 62 (your spouse does not have to apply for benefits in order for you to be eligible based on your spouse's work) ;or * worked long enough in a federal, state, or local government job to be insured for Medicare. Retirement Benefits if You Are Under 65 Before age 65, you are eligible for Medicare hospital insurance if you: * get Social Security disability benefits and have amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig's) disease; or * have been a Social Security disability beneficiary for 24 months; or * have worked long enough in a federal, state, or local government job and you meet the requirements of the Social Security disability program. If you receive a disability annuity from the Railroad Retirement Board, you will be eligible for hospital insurance after a waiting period. (Contact your railroad retirement office for details.)
Where can I find information on a special enrollment period in Medicare Part B for TRICARE beneficiaries? The Medicare Prescription Drug Improvement and Modernization Act of 2003 (P.L. 108-173) provides a special enrollment period in Medicare Part B for TRICARE beneficiaries. The provision also reimburses TRICARE beneficiaries who paid late Medicare enrollment premium surcharges in 2004. Information about the enrollment period and reimbursements for TRICARE beneficiaries is available here. Tricare
How do I find Form 8822, IRS Change of Address form? Form 8822, Change of Address is an Internal Revenue Service form used to change your address with the IRS, not Social Security. You can find the form on the IRS web site at http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f8822.pdf NOTE: You will need the Adobe Reader software to read this file. Go to http://www.adobe.com/products/reader/ to download the program if you do not already have it.The Social Security Administration does not have a change of address form. To change your address with Social Security: 1. If you receive cash benefits, have applied for benefits, or are entitled to Medicare: * Change your address or phone number online.
* Call our toll-free number, 1-800-772-1213. Our representatives will be glad to take the information and make any necessary changes in our records.
* Notify your local field office. You can get addresses and directions to our field offices from the Social Security Office Locator which is available on the Internet at: http://www.socialsecurity.gov/locator/. 2. If you are not currently entitled to Social Security or Medicare benefits, and do not have an application pending - Take no action. Social Security only maintains address information on current beneficiaries and people who have applications for benefits pending. Retirement Benefits ###
Do you know any former prisoners of war (POW) or their family members? If so, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) needs your help. VA is once again reaching out to former prisoners of war not currently using VA benefits and services, urging them to contact the Department to find out if they are eligible for health care, disability compensation and other services.
SOCIAL SECURITY News Release Social Security Announces 2.3 Percent Benefit Increase for 2008
Monthly Social Security and Supplemental Security Income benefits for more than 54 million Americans will increase 2.3 percent in 2008, the Social Security Administration announced today. Social Security and Supplemental Security Income benefits increase automatically each year based on the rise in the Bureau of Labor Statistics' Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W), from the third quarter of the prior year to the corresponding period of the current year. This year's increase in the CPI-W was 2.3 percent. The 2.3 percent Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) will begin with benefits that nearly 50 million Social Security beneficiaries receive in January 2008. Increased payments to more than 7 million Supplemental Security Income beneficiaries will begin on December 31. Some other changes that take effect in January of each year are based on the increase in average wages. Based on that increase, the maximum amount of earnings subject to the Social Security tax (taxable maximum) will increase to $102,000 from $97,500. Of the estimated 164 million workers who will pay Social Security taxes in 2008, nearly 12 million will pay higher taxes as a result of the increase in the taxable maximum. Information about Medicare changes for 2008 can be found at www.cms.hhs.gov. # # #
What is the "Part B" Medicare monthly premium for 2008?
The Part B monthly premium will be $96.40 in 2008, an increase of $2.90, or 3.1 percent, from the $93.50 Part B premium for 2007. The 2008 amount is the smallest percentage increase in the Part B premium since 2000. The Medicare Part B premium amounts for 2008 are determined by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The premiums paid by beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare Part B cover physician services, outpatient hospital services, certain home health services, durable medical equipment and other items. Most beneficiaries will continue to pay the standard premium. Beginning in 2007, a small number of beneficiaries with higher incomes (individuals with income exceeding $80,000 and married couples with income exceeding $160,000) began paying a higher Part B premium based on their income.
Fact Sheet: The Pension Protection Act of 2006: Ensuring Greater Retirement Security for American Workers August 6, 2006
Today, President Bush Signed The Pension Protection Act Of 2006, The Most Sweeping Reform Of America's Pension Laws In Over 30 Years. Last year, President Bush asked Congress to strengthen protections for the pensions American workers rely on, and Congress responded by passing this bipartisan bill. * Every American Has An Interest In Fixing The Pension System. The Federal government has created an insurance system for businesses offering private pensions, and the insurance is funded by premiums collected from these employers. When some businesses fail to fund their pension plans and are unable to meet obligations to their employees, it puts a strain on the entire pension system. If there is not enough money in the system to cover all the extra costs, American taxpayers could be called on to make up the shortfall. Retirement Benefits This Legislation Improves The Pension System And Expands Opportunities To Build Retirement Nest Eggs The Pension Protection Act Strengthens The Federal Pension Insurance System. The legislation: * Requires companies that under-fund their pension plans to pay additional premiums; * Extends a requirement that companies that terminate their pensions provide extra funding for the pension insurance system; * Requires that companies measure the obligations of their pension plans more accurately; * Closes loopholes that allow under-funded plans to skip pension payments; * Raises caps on the amount that employers can put into their pension plans, so they can add more money during good times and build a cushion that can keep their pensions solvent in lean times; and * Prevents companies with under-funded pension plans from digging the hole deeper by promising extra benefits to their workers without paying for those promises up front. Retirement Benefits President Bush Has Sent A Clear Message To Businesses Across America That They Must Keep Their Promises To Workers. Businesses that offer a private pension plan to their employees have a duty to set aside enough money now, so their workers get what they have been promised when they retire. The Pension Protection Act Also Contains Provisions To Help American Workers Who Save For Retirement Through Defined Contribution Plans, Like IRAs And 401(k)s. Defined contribution plans are helping Americans build a society of ownership and financial independence, and this legislation makes it easier for workers to participate in these plans. The legislation: * Removes barriers that prevent companies from automatically enrolling their employees in defined contribution plans; * Ensures that workers have more information about the performance of their accounts; * Provides greater access to professional advice about investing for retirement; * Gives workers greater control over how their accounts are invested; and * Makes permanent the higher contribution limits for IRAs and 401(k)s that were passed in 2001, enabling more workers to build larger retirement nest eggs. To Ensure A More Secure Retirement For All Americans, We Must Also Prepare For The Impact Of The Baby Boom Generation's Retirement On Entitlement Programs Like Social Security And Medicare. Entitlement programs are projected to grow faster than the economy, faster than the population, and faster than the rate of inflation. If we fail to act, Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid will be almost 60 percent of the entire Federal budget in the year 2030. President Bush continues to call on Congress to meet its duty to reform these programs so we can ensure a secure retirement for all Americans. # # # Retirement Benefits
If you would like an SSA form, you can request a copy from the SSA. You never have to pay for an SSA form. All forms are free to the public. To request an SSA form, please call 1-800-772-1213 or you can visit your Q What Are The Work Requirements For Retirement Benefits? A A Worker must have 40 credits Q What is a Credit ? Q What is the qualifying Amount For Retirement Benefits?? A The qualifying amount is $1000 in the most recent quarter, for earnings in 2007. For 2006 a credit required earnings of at least $970, in all quarters before that. Q Where does the qualifying amount come from? A The qualifying amount is based on the average national earnings that were in effect for those quarters. Q What is the Covered Amount? A The covered amount is the amount of earnings, on which taxes were properly withheld and paid to the government. ** Q Do You Need 40 quarters of work for 40 credits? A Yes Q So if I work ten full calendar years, have proper withholding and eligibility and meet the earnings test, do I qualify? A Yes. Working ten successive, full years, is one way to qualify, however, your forty credits (covered quarters) need not be in succession. Q If I have 40 credits, will I get the maximum benefit? A Probably not. 40 credits has to do with eligibility. Q So what determines how much my benefit will be? A The amount of benefits has to do with your earnings, discussed in the earnings section. Q Can I earn more than 4 credits in a year? A The maximum number of (covered) credits per year is 4. Q What is the earliest age a worker can receive retirement benefits A Age 62 is the earliest that one may receive retirement benefits. Q Can I Get Full Retirement Benefits at age 62? A No. There is a formula that reduces the full benefit somewhat, before your regular retirement age. **Some workers do not pay into the social security system, therefore they are not eligible for benefits even if they meet the $970 test. A A calendar quarter in which you earned, both the qualifying amount and a covered amount gives you 1 credit. Until recently, the age for full retirement benefits was 65 years. Several years back a new formula was devised If you were born after January 1, 1938, you will reach full retirement age sometime after age 65. You will receive a reduced benefit if you file for retirement or spouse's benefits before you reach full retirement age. Please use the chart below to determine when you actually reach full retirement age if you do not want to receive reduced retirement benefits. NOTE: Although you are eligible for Medicare coverage at age 65 and can apply up to 3 months in advance, you should NOT use this Internet application to file solely for Medicare. Instead, you should call 1-800-772-1213 toll-free to set up an appointment over the phone or in a convenient Social Security office. If you are deaf or hard of hearing, call our toll-free "TTY" number, 1-800-325-0778. If you were born: Your Full Retirement Age is: Jan. 1st, 1938 or earlier 65 Jan. 2nd, 1938 - Jan. 1st, 1939 65 and 2 months Jan. 2nd, 1939 - Jan. 1st, 1940 65 and 4 months Jan. 2nd, 1940 - Jan. 1st, 1941 65 and 6 months Jan. 2nd, 1941 - Jan. 1st, 1942 65 and 8 months Jan. 2nd, 1942 - Jan. 1st, 1943 65 and 10 months Jan. 2nd, 1943 - Jan. 1st, 1955 66 Jan. 2nd, 1955 - Jan. 1st, 1956 66 and 2 months Jan. 2nd, 1956 - Jan. 1st, 1957 66 and 4 months Jan. 2nd, 1957 - Jan. 1st, 1958 66 and 6 months Jan. 2nd, 1958 - Jan. 1st, 1959 66 and 8 months Jan. 2nd, 1959 - Jan. 1st, 1960 66 and 10 months Jan. 2nd, 1960 or later 67 If you want your retirement benefits to begin with the month you reach full retirement age, please make sure that month is within four months of the date you complete this electronic application. We cannot accept an application more than 4 months in the future. Obtaining an SSA Form for Personal Use If you would like an SSA form and do not see it on our webpage, you can request a copy from us. You never have to pay for an SSA form. All of our forms are free to the public. To request an SSA form, please call 1-800-772-1213 or you can visit your local office. SOCIAL SECURITY News Release Social Security Board of Trustees Issues Annual Report April 23, 2007 Long-Range Financing Challenges Continue The Social Security Board of Trustees today released its annual report on the financial health of the Social Security Trust Funds. The 2007 Trustees Report shows slight improvement in the projected financial status of the Social Security program from last year. In the 2007 Annual Report to Congress, the Trustees announced:
The projected point at which tax revenues will fall below program costs comes in 2017 -- the same as the estimate in last year’s report. The projected point at which the Trust Funds will be exhausted comes in 2041 -- one year later than the projection in last year’s report. The projected actuarial deficit over the 75-year long-range period is 1.95 percent of taxable payroll -- .06 percentage point smaller than in last year’s report. Over the 75-year period, the Trust Funds would require additional revenue equivalent to $4.7 trillion in today’s dollars to pay all scheduled benefits. This unfunded obligation is about $100 billion higher than the amount estimated last year. “Social Security provides valuable economic protection to workers and their families. We owe it to the American public to continue to offer the best possible support for older Americans, people with disabilities and their families in the coming decades,” said Michael J. Astrue, Commissioner of Social Security. “The Trustees Report is an important tool for those in the legislative and executive branches who will have to make the very difficult decisions about how best to ensure Social Security remains viable for the long term.” Retirement Benefits Other highlights of the Trustees Report include: * Income including interest to the combined Old-Age and Survivors, and Disability Insurance (OASDI) Trust Funds amounted to $745 billion ($626 billion in net contributions, $17 billion from taxation of benefits and $102 billion in interest) in 2006. * Total expenditures from the combined OASDI Trust Funds amounted to $555 billion in 2006. * The assets of the combined OASDI Trust Funds increased by about $190 billion in 2006 to a total of $2 trillion. * During 2006, an estimated 162 million people had earnings covered by Social Security and paid payroll taxes. * Social Security paid benefits of $546 billion in calendar year 2006. There were 49 million beneficiaries at the end of the calendar year. * The cost of $5.3 billion to administer the program in 2006 was a very low 1.0 percent of total expenditures. * The combined Trust Fund assets earned interest at an effective annual rate of 5.3 percent. PLEASE CHECK BACK REGULARLY FOR SOCIAL SECURITY UPDATES ON RETIREMENT BENEFITS Retirement Benefits New Rules For Getting A Social Security Number And Card Recent provisions in law have changed the rules for assigning a Social Security number and issuing a Social Security card. This fact sheet gives the most up-to-date information available on the documents needed to apply for a Social Security number and card. All documents must be either originals or copies certified by the issuing agency. We cannot accept photocopies or notarized copies of documents. Retirement Benefits May 24, 2007 How Much Was The Latest Increase in Social Security? The percentage increase of the latest COLA was (is) 3.3%. What Was The Average Amount Received Since That COLA Took Effect? The Average Monthly Social Security Benefits Payable effective January 2007 was (is) $1044. What is the employees payment of FICA for 2007? The employee payment which includes payment for Medicare and Social Security for 2007 is still 7.65%. What Is The Maximum Amount On Which An Employee Must Pay FICA? FICA (OASDI* only) Maximum Earnings Taxable: 2005--$90,000 Tax Due $5,580 2006--$94,200 Tax Due $5,840.40 2007--$97,500 Tax Due $6,045 A Social Security number is important because you need it to get a job, collect Social Security benefits and receive some other government services. Many other businesses, such as banks and credit companies, also ask for your number. If you are a noncitizen living in the United States, you also may need a Social Security number. For more information, see Social Security Numbers For Noncitizens (Publication No. 05-10096). If you are temporarily in the United States to work, see Foreign Workers and Social Security Numbers (Publication No. 05-10107). Retirement Benefits What is a Social Security Statement? Question Your Social Security Statement is a concise, easy-to-read personal record of the earnings on which you have paid Social Security taxes during your working years and a summary of the estimated benefits you and your family may receive as a result of those earnings. We provide the Statements in two ways: in automatic annual mailings to workers and former workers aged 25 and older and at any time to workers of any age who request them. We hope you will keep your Statement with your other important papers and use it in several ways: * First, the benefit estimates in your Statement can play an important role in your financial planning. When combined with your savings, investments and other pensions, your Social Security benefits can help you build a secure future for yourself and your family. * Second, the Statement can help you make sure your reported earnings and other important information such as your name and date of birth are correct on your record. Mistakes could keep you from getting all the Social Security benefits you have earned. The sooner you identify mistakes, the easier it will be to help us correct them. * And finally, the general information on the Statement tells you about all the protection you are earning under Social Security. Many people think of Social Security only as a retirement program. The Statement shows how even young workers are building valuable protection in case they become disabled or die before they reach retirement age. SSA Publication No. 05-10120, October 2006,
Recent provisions in law have changed the rules for assigning a Social Security number and issuing a Social Security card. This fact sheet gives the most up-to-date information available on the documents needed to apply for a Social Security number and card. All documents must be either originals or copies certified by the issuing agency. We cannot accept photocopies or notarized copies of documents. Proof of citizenship and identity To get a Social Security number or a replacement card, you must complete an application and prove your U.S. citizenship or immigration status, age and identity. For a replacement card, proof of your U.S. citizenship and age are not required if they are already in our records. Under the new law, only certain documents can be accepted as proof of U.S. citizenship. These include your U.S. birth certificate, a U.S. passport, a Certificate of Naturalization or a Certificate of Citizenship. If you are not a U.S. citizen, different rules apply for proving your immigration status, and those rules have not changed. Also under the new law, only certain documents can be accepted as proof of identity. An acceptable document must show your name, identifying information about you and preferably a recent photograph. If you are a U.S. citizen, Social Security must see your: U.S. driver’s license; State-issued nondriver identity card; or U.S. passport. If you do not have these specific documents or cannot get a replacement for them within 10 days, we will ask to see other documents, including: Employee ID card; School ID card; Health insurance card (not a Medicare card); U.S. military ID card; or Adoption decree. If you are not a U.S. citizen, Social Security must see your current U.S. immigration documents. Acceptable documents from the Department of Homeland Security include your: Form I-551 (includes machine-readable immigrant visa with your unexpired foreign passport); I-94 with your unexpired foreign passport; or Work permit card (I-766 or I-688B). Retirement Benefits My wife doesn't have enough work to qualify; can she qualify on my record? My wife doesn't have enough work to qualify for Social Security or Medicare. Can she qualify on my record? The question you've raised applies to husbands as well as wives. Even if he or she has never worked under Social Security, your spouse at full retirement age can receive a benefit equal to one-half of your full retirement amount. (If your spouse will receive a pension for work not covered by Social Security such as government foreign employment, the amount of his or her Social Security benefits on your record may be reduced. Take a look at the fact sheet, "Government Pension Offset" for more information.) Your spouse can begin collecting the benefits as early as age 62, but the amount will be permanently reduced by a percentage based on the number of months up to his or her full retirement age. Your spouse who is caring for your child who is also receiving benefits can receive the full one-half benefit amount no matter what his or her age is. Your spouse would receive these benefits until the child reaches age 16. At that time, the child's benefits continue, but your spouse's benefits stop unless he or she is old enough to receive retirement benefits (age 62 or older) or survivor benefits as a widow or widower (age 60).
______________________________________________________________________ Retirement Benefits To Social Security Home Page Please subscribe to our monthly newsletter, Political Junkies Journal. It tells you each month about the new information we have added, including: Walt Mossberg’s Personal Technology, Key Tax Information, Trivia (play for prizes), Quotes, Lyrics, Rhymes and Brian Wesbury on Economics.
|
