You may receive benefits on your spouse's record if he qualifies for Social Security and you've been married over ten years.
Social Security has helped keep people of all walks of life out of poverty since 1935. You may think of Social Security as a program for the elderly, but in reality, many people become disabled at a young age, lose their jobs or lose a loved one, and struggle providing for their families. Without Social Security, widows, widowers, low-income children, ex-spouses, adopted children, stepchildren, the blind and people with disabilities would have limited options.
What was the original Social Security Act about?
In 1935, the Social Security Act was passed to provide a monthly benefit to retired workers, widows, children and the disabled. It got a reputation as a retirement program because most people who receive benefits are retirees. However, as of 2010, those who receive some form of Social Security Disability come as a close second to retirement beneficiaries.
When Should I Collect Retirement Benefits?
Though you qualify for reduced retirement benefits at 62, many people wait until full retirement age to collect benefits. Full retirement age is 65 for those born before 1939; it is 66 for those born between 1940-1959; and it is 67 for those born in 1960 or after. Age 70 is the age at which you'll receive your maximum benefit---but waiting beyond 70 does not increase your benefit amount.
What is Medicare and Medicaid?
Medicare and Medicaid are health insurance programs, but they are quite different. Medicare is funded by federal income taxes and serves as a medical insurance program for those of age 65 or older. Medicaid is a state-run program that provides benefits to low-income individuals of any age.
How much will my benefit be?
Your benefit for retirement and disability insurance will vary with your average lifetime salary and the number of years you worked. Supplementary Security Income (SSI) benefits are a set amount, regardless of your work history. Survivor's benefits depend on the work history and salary of your deceased relative. The Social Security Administration provides a benefit estimator (See Resources) for your convenience---it doesn't say how much you'll definitely get, but it gives you an estimate.
How does Social Security decide who is disabled?
The Social Security Administration defines a disability as a condition that will last at least a year or result in death. Using this criteria, it extends disability benefits to those who are the least adaptable to new jobs--often the elderly--and those who have few financial resources.
How do I apply?
You can apply for retirement, Medicare, and disability benefits online by going to the link in Resources section. Apply for survivor's benefits by calling 800-772-1213 and setting up an appointment. You can also call the previous number to apply for the other benefits, if you're uncomfortable applying online.
Tags: Social Security, Security Administration, Social Security Administration, those born, disability benefits, many people
