Who Can Get Social Security?

Discover who qualifies for Social Security benefits and when to apply. Apply early to avoid problems and be sure to include all potential recipients.

The Social Security Administration provides retirement benefits to more than 35 million Americans. In addition, the agency pays benefits to disabled persons, surviving spouses of wage earners who passed away, and dependents of wage earners who passed away. Special rules apply to each situation before benefits begin.

Social Security after Retirement

Qualifying for retirement benefits begins at age 62. Full retirement benefits begin no earlier than age 65 and may not begin up to age 67, depending on the date of birth of each applicant. The amount of benefits paid by the Social Security Administration depends on the amount of contributions made by each potential beneficiary. Larger contributions result in higher retirement benefits, although any U.S. citizen or legal residents may qualify for benefits at some level. The agency reports individual benefit estimates annually.

Disability Income

The Social Security Administration rules for disability determination do not follow general insurance trends or even rules followed by other government agencies. Similarly, the agency’s rules are not based entirely on a doctor’s assessment of disability. Disability determinations typically require several months and include a comprehensive examination of each doctor’s reports, hospital records, test results, prescribed medications, and review of employment records over the past 15 years. Nevertheless, once becoming familiar with disability requirements and applying, benefits may begin at any age.

Survivor Income

A surviving spouse may collect Social Security benefits in two different ways. If a spouse is 62 years of age or older, the spouse may receive up to one-half of benefits earned. If a surviving spouse of any age cares for a child of the decedent who is 16 years old or less, a spouse may receive a payment up to one-half of benefits earned for the benefit of each qualified child. Survivor benefits are typically limited to a total payment equal to 150% to 180% of total benefits payable.

Related posts

1. If One Spouse Dies Can The Other Receive Their Social Security?
2. What are Social Security Death Benefits?
3. What Are The Different Types of Social Security Benefits?
4. If I Get Remarried, How Does That Affect My Social Security Benefits?
5. How Do I Apply For Social Security Benefits Online?

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