3 Social Security Benefits

Many people do not understand the importance oflast a year or result in death. This may make you
Social Security for their lives and their family's.eligible for a disability benefit.
Being able to understand the benefits of this isHaving a statement from your doctor does not
important.mean that you are already eligible for these
Having a social security account is very importantbenefits. People with disabilities, whether children
as you will need this for you to get a job and payor parents, and have a little income or few
taxes. Your social security number is your link toresources, may be eligible for disability payments
enjoying many benefits. The government usesthrough Supplemental Security Income program.
your SSN to track your earnings while you areIf you have a social security account and you die,
working and benefits after you apply for benefits.your family might be eligible for survivor benefits
The government considers your SSN as highlybased on your work history.
confidential. If any person tries to ask for yourA family member or widow or widower is able to
personal information that the government hascollect the benefits if they are able to meet the
about you, they will not give it without yourfollowing requirements:
consent, and unless required by the law.• 60 years old or older; or
Retirement Benefits are benefits a person can• 50 years old and disabled; or
get from having an SSN. Choosing the time that• Any age if that person is taking care for your
your will retire is very important and will affectchild who is 16 years old and younger and entitled
your retirement benefits for the rest of your life.to
Retiring by the time you reach full retirement ageSocial Security benefits on your records.
will let you receive full retirement benefits. But ifThose are 3 of the many benefits that you or
you decide to retire earlier than this, you will onlyyour family will be able to get from applying a
get to receive reduced benefits for the rest ofsocial security account. Preparing for you and your
your life.family's future should not be delayed and should
Disability Benefits are given when you are one ofbe done immediately because time is not a luxury
those persons who are not able to work becausewe have.
of physical or mental condition and is expected to