Social Security

Social Security is a United States federal program administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA) that provides retirement, disability, and survivor benefits. It is primarily funded through dedicated payroll taxes paid by workers and their employers. 

Types of benefits

• Retirement benefits:  These are monthly payments for workers who have paid Social Security taxes for at least 10 years (40 credits) and are at least 62 years old. Your benefit amount is higher if you wait to claim it, with the maximum benefit available at age 70.

• Disability benefits:  Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) provides monthly payments to people who have a qualifying long-term disability that prevents them from working. Eligibility is based on having worked and paid into the system for a certain amount of time.

• Survivor benefits:  These are payments for the spouse, former spouse, or unmarried children of a worker who has died. The family of the deceased worker may also receive a one-time death benefit.

• Supplemental Security Income (SSI):  This is a needs-based program for people with very limited income and resources who are age 65 or older, blind, or disabled. You do not need to have a work history to be eligible for SSI.

Eligibility for retirement benefits

To qualify for your own retirement benefits, you generally need to meet these criteria:

• Work credits:  You must earn 40 Social Security credits, which typically requires 10 years of work. You can earn up to four credits each year.

• Age:  You can start receiving a reduced benefit at age 62. To receive      100% of your benefits, you must wait until your full retirement age, which      is between 66 and 67, depending on your birth year.

• Citizenship:  You must be a U.S. citizen or a lawfully present noncitizen. 

How to apply for benefits

You can apply for Social Security benefits through the following methods:

• Online:  You can apply on the Social Security Administration's official website at www.ssa.gov

• By phone:  Call the national toll-free number at 1-800-772-1213.

• In person:  Visit a local Social Security office. It is recommended to call ahead and schedule an appointment to avoid long wait times.

Important resources

• Create an account:  A "my Social Security" account on the SSA website allows you to check your earnings record and get a personalized estimate of your future benefits.

• Official website:  The official website for the Social Security Administration is www.ssa.gov