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Search Social Security Q&A Tool
Enter a keyword to get all the answers to your Social Security questions.
Two easy ways to find answers to common Social Security questions:
- Choose a topic below to find quick answers.
- To read complete answers, login or register, and try a keyword search above like "eligibility" or "benefit".
- If you are accessing this page using a mobile device and do not see the search box above -- please click here to access the mobile-friendly Social Security Question and Answer search page.
AARP's Social Security Question and Answer Tool can offer practical and comprehensive information about how the program works and when to apply. The tool can also help clarify eligibility requirements and provide answers to questions on disability, survivor, spousal and family benefits in an easy to understand manner.
Let AARP's Social Security Question and Answer Tool offer you faster access to browse for the answers you are looking for on Social Security.
Disability - You and Your Disability Benefits
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Appeals
Q. How long does it take to get a hearing with Social Security to appeal a decision?A. To get a hearing with Social Security, you must first appeal the decision, then there are 4 different levels of the process. — To view the complete answer, select the question above.
Medicare
Q. If I retire at age 62, will I be eligible for Medicare at that time?A. Medicare is health care generally only available to people at the age of 65. — To view the complete answer, select the question above.
Work and Income
Q. Can I earn money while collecting Social Security Disability?A. Yes. Social Security has a trial work period and the "Ticket to Work" program, to help disabled workers ease back into the labor force. — To view the complete answer, select the question above.
Eligibility - Am I Eligible for Social Security?
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Citizenship and Living Abroad
Q. Are there any countries to which the U.S. will not send Social Security payments?A. Social Security benefits can be sent abroad to most foreign countries, but there are a few countries that are classified as restricted. — To view the complete answer, select the question above.
Retirement Age
Q. When is the earliest age I can receive Social Security benefits?A. Eligibility for early retirement begins at age 62 but survivors and the disabled can claim even earlier. — To view the complete answer, select the question above.
Spouse
Q. If my spouse is 62 or older, can she claim spouse benefits even if I am not at retirement age yet?A. You must claim in order for a spouse to receive benefits on your record. — To view the complete answer, select the question above.
Family - A Benefit Plan for Dependents
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Children
Q. Can my children get Social Security benefits based on my work record?A. An eligible dependent and/or child may be able to receive a portion of your retirement benefits when you claim. — To view the complete answer, select the question above.
Divorce
Q. How do divorced spouse benefits work?A. Divorced spouse benefits are based on an ex-spouse's work record, very similar to those of a married couple. — To view the complete answer, select the question above.
Survivor
Q. Are survivor benefits decreased if claimed early?A. Survivor benefits, if filed at full retirement age, are worth 100% of what the deceased worker was entitled to collect. — To view the complete answer, select the question above.
How it Works - The Social Security Process
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Applying
Q. How far in advance should I sign up for Social Security benefits?A. You should apply for Social Security benefits about 3 months before you want to receive your first payment. — To view the complete answer, select the question above.
Calculate
Q. I have already begun taking Social Security benefits. Is there any way I can get the amount increased?A. You may be able to increase and recalculate your benefit amount if you continue to work. — To view the complete answer, select the question above.
Social Security Cards and Numbers
Q. How can I get a Social Security number for a new baby?A. After the baby's birth, you can apply for a Social Security card at the hospital. — To view the complete answer, select the question above.
Work, Pension, and Taxes - Getting a Closer Look
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Earnings and Income
Q. When can I begin receiving Social Security benefits without being subject to the earnings limit of $15,120?A. The Retirement Earnings Test limit no longer applies once you reach Full Retirement Age. — To view the complete answer, select the question above.
Private Pensions
Q. How can I track down a pension from a former employer?A. You can start your pension benefits search by visiting the Employee Benefits Security Administration for assistance. — To view the complete answer, select the question above.
Taxes
Q. Do I have to pay federal taxes on my Social Security benefits?A. Your income will determine how much of your benefit is taxable. — To view the complete answer, select the question above.
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