Social Security Frequently Asked Questions
Social Security rules can be confusing, and many people have questions about their benefits, eligibility, and when to start collecting.
Unfortunately, we do not have access to your personal Social Security record. Because of this, many questions can only be answered directly by the Social Security Administration.
Below are answers to some of the most common Social Security questions we hear, along with links to additional information on our site.
If you have questions about your personal Social Security record, you should contact the Social Security Administration directly.
Social Security Frequently Asked Questions
Social Security rules can be confusing, and many people have questions about their benefits, eligibility, and when to start collecting.
Unfortunately, we do not have access to your personal Social Security record. Because of this, many questions can only be answered directly by the Social Security Administration.
Below are answers to some of the most common Social Security questions we hear, along with links to additional information on our site.
If you have questions about your personal Social Security record, you should contact the Social Security Administration directly.
Social Security – Retirement Questions
For more detailed information, visit our page on Social Security Explained.
You can begin collecting retirement benefits as early as age 62, but doing so results in a permanent reduction in your monthly benefit.
The earlier you start benefits before your Full Retirement Age, the larger the reduction will be.
If you start benefits before reaching your Full Retirement Age, Social Security applies an earnings limit.
If your income from work exceeds the annual limit, a portion of your benefits may be temporarily withheld.
Once you reach Full Retirement Age, the earnings limit no longer applies.
The easiest way to estimate your future benefits is by creating a free account with the Social Security Administration.
You can do this by visiting:
www.ssa.gov
www.ssa.gov
Once your account is created, you will be able to:
- View your earnings history
- See estimated benefits at different retirement ages
- Verify that your income was reported correctly
Social Security – Spousal Benefits
For more detailed information, visit our page on Social Security Spousal Benefits.
Possibly.
If you were married for at least 10 years, you may be eligible to receive a spousal benefit based on your former spouse’s work record.
Your ex-spouse does not need to give permission, and drawing a spousal benefit does not reduce their benefits or their current spouse’s benefits.
No.
Your spousal benefit does not reduce the benefit amount your ex-spouse receives, and it does not impact their current spouse’s benefits.
Many people worry about this, but Social Security rules are designed so that your benefit does not take money away from anyone else.
Social Security – Disability Questions
For more detailed information, visit our page on Social Security Disability.
Possibly. Eligibility for Social Security Disability Insurance depends on whether you have enough recent work credits.
If you do not qualify for SSDI, you may still be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) depending on your financial situation.
If you do not have enough work history for SSDI, you may qualify for SSI, which is a needs-based disability program.
This depends on your personal situation.
In some cases, disability benefits may provide higher monthly payments than early retirement benefits.
Because each case is different, it’s best to discuss your situation directly with the Social Security Administration.
Most people receiving Social Security Disability benefits become eligible for Medicare after 24 months of receiving disability payments.
This waiting period is set by federal law.
Even when qualifying for Medicare through disability, Medicare Part B usually requires a monthly premium, just like Medicare for people age 65 and older.
Most individuals who already have Medicare due to disability do not need to enroll again, but it is still a good idea to review your coverage options when you reach age 65.
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Still Have Questions?
For questions about your personal Social Security record, contact the Social Security Administration directly.
Social Security Administration
Phone: 800-772-1213
Website: www.ssa.gov
You can also visit your local Social Security office for in-person assistance.