To receive many Social Security benefits, you must qualify.
Social Security provides numerous benefits for people who qualify, including retirement benefits, Medicare, Supplemental Security Insurance (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). You must meet specific eligibility criteria before receiving benefits. For most Social Security benefits, you must complete an application. People who already receive Social Security benefits such as SSDI or SSI don't need to apply for Medicare; they automatically receive it once they meet eligibility requirements. Others must apply for Medicare, however.
Instructions
1. Telephone the Social Security Administration at 800-772-1213 to request a Social Security statement. The statement will show you at what age you can begin receiving retirement benefits and how much you would receive each month if you became disabled and began receiving SSDI at this time.
2. Request a Social Security statement online if you prefer.
3. Telephone the Social Security Administration or visit your local Social Security Administration office if you have questions about benefits for which you might qualify.
4. Use the retirement planner on the Social Security Administration website to help you decide when you should apply for retirement benefits.
5. Talk to your doctor if you think you might qualify for Social Security disability benefits. To qualify, you must be unable to work for at least one year due to your disability. Your doctor can help you decide if your disability will prevent you from working for that length of time.
Tags: Social Security, Security Administration, Social Security Administration, retirement benefits, Security benefits, Social Security benefits
