For 80 years, Social Security has been there for you and your family when you need us most. And, finding us at our field offices, where you can speak with an employee face-to-face, is easier than ever!
Our handy field office locator is accessible from your computer and mobile device. On the website, you can enter your zip code to find the address, phone number and hours of the Social Security office closest to you. You can also use this tool to see a map and get directions; if you’re on your mobile device, it will even give you turn-by-turn directions.
Since you are already online, you could skip the traffic and lines by taking advantage of our other online features, too. Check out What You Can Do Online, where you’ll find that many of our services are just a click away!
For example, you use the Retirement Estimator to estimate future benefits, apply for Social Security benefits online and sign up for a my Social Security account. Setting up a my Social Security account is convenient and secure. You’ll have access to your Social Security Statement, and if you already receive benefits, you can view and print your verification letter and manage your benefits.
Some people prefer doing business in person, though, and that’s why our offices are there! Our employees are passionate about providing you with the best service possible, and we’re proud of our long history of doing so. When you visit us, whether in person or online, we’re always ready to help!
If a client is drawing social security, employed full time; who will be un-able to continue employment for multiple health issues, would this person be eligible for a raise on his social security benefits ?
you would only get a raise if you were still under “full retirement age”, and filed for disability and get approved for it.
I have heard that soc sec is being ‘cancelled’ due to no money left in our system, to go into effect this May. any one heard this? or what this is actually referring to?
Just read they may cut social security disability benefits 19% later this year. However, they may offset that by contributing to the disability fund from the retirement fund. See: http://money.usnews.com/money/retirement/articles/2015/10/22/what-no-social-security-cola-could-mean-for-you
Hi Jan, the Social Security Disability Insurance trust fund will now be able to pay full benefits until at least mid-2022.
Thank you for this on line service
I AM 63 YEARS OLD AND MY BIRTHDAY IS IN JULY WHEN SHOULD I GO TO THE SOCIAL SECURITY OFFICE. EITHER WHEN I TURN 64 OR WAIT UNTIL A FEW MONTHS BEFORE I TURN 65?
it’s usually best to go in Jan of the year you’re interested in filing. That way, SSA has all 12 months to work with, and if you’re working ands SSA needs to offset some of your checks, you’ll get paid more months. There’s no distinct advantage to waiting until your exact birthday month. Benefits and age reductions are calculated month by month by SSA.
You should inquire now because there may be no retroactivity. Everyone’s situation is different but if you inquire now your date of filing is protected.
I will be 67 in April and am considering retiring end of March 2016 or April 2016. I will need to enroll for full SS benefits and in Medicare. When should I start the process? Is it too early now? I ‘m just not sure of a date yet.
visit now! you’re already eligible for 100% of your retirement pension. You could lose $$ if you wait. SSA can go over what you’d get at difference months and then you chose.
Thank you.
File now, you can be placed in work suspense if appropriate and you’ll need Medicare coverage.
Our system is set up to take applications three months in advance. At age 67, you can apply for your benefits online at any time now. Remember that benefits are paid the month after they are due. So, for instance, if you want your benefits to begin with the month of April, you will receive your first benefit payment in May. Please visit our Social Security Retirement Planner for more information.
This blog is pure BS. It is not easy to speak with a knowledgeable person at SSA. The online guide with field office locations often includes only the national 800 number rather than the local field office number. Calling the local field office, if you’re lucky enough to find their number, usually means being on hold for up to an hour, or worse, being cut off with a recording that says sorry but we can’t serve you now. In person visits involve meeting with front line staff with little program knowledge. SSA does not provide world class service – not even close!
you have no clue what you’re talking about. All SSA field offices have a toll free number, but IT IS the number to the local office identified by the ZIP you enter. And SSA does not put you on hold for an hour. Sounds like you like to make things up, and are “Mr. Negative”. It is true that you can call and get “politely disconnected” if the call volume at that time is too high. There’s only so many employees in an office.
I stand corrected and my apologies to John – just found a field office in NY that does not have it’s own local phone number but is using the SSA national toll free number (1-800-772-1213). Most other SSA offices have their own local number and employees from that office answer the phone.
I also have encountered a field office with a “disconnected” local phone number. Also have spent hours trying to get a “mistake in my benefits” corrected and additional money added to my monthly amount. This has been going on since July 31, 2015 when I received the letter telling me that THEY found THEIR mistake. I will try to go to the local office to see if this can finally get straightened out!
Really? If that is the way you talk to the community, they are not perceiving you to be friendly and knowledgeable.
John knows Exactly what he is talking about. I’ve currently been on hold for 87 minutes! Once you get a person on the phone it is a crap shoot as to whether the person will be helpful or even polite. 6 out of 10 times, they are not! Interestingly enough, you Josh, just proved my point in rudely stating that John is clueless. Typical arrogance of SSA employees. Customer Service means little or nothing to this Agency.
Sorry, but I totally disagree with you. Prior to visiting one of our local offices in SLC, I contacted the 800 number where all of my questions were answered, an appointment made for an office visit, and I was advised to apply on-line before my actual visit. They explained the paperwork I would need to provide for the particular benefit I was seeking, which enabled me to be prepared when I had my face-to-face with the SS representative. On my first visit, Cathy was very helpful in verifying all of my information, explaining what I had entered incorrectly, and correcting my error. My questions were answered completely, I was set up for Direct Deposit, and she went above board in making sure all of my paperwork was in order. Because one of my documents was not a certified copy, I had to contact an out-of-state agency to get one. Cathy made sure I knew just what to ask for. Once I received that document, I went back to the same office, and spoke with Mrs. Drake, who was equally as helpful. She made sure everything was in order, and answered some further questions for me.
Because of these two ladies, my benefit application was streamlined, and I’m happy to say, I received my first checking account deposit yesterday, as promised.
I can’t say enough good things about the service I received from beginning to end.
Sandra – nice of you to take the time for the positive feedback. Most people just like to complain. Have a great day
Amen Josh. The old saying is (You draw more flies with honey than vinegar.) God knows we have enough negativity in this world. Nice to hear some positive and a person take the time to note it! Kudos to Sandy!
Thank you for sharing your experience, Sandra! Your thoughts are important to us and we’re pleased when feedback is positive. Our employees take great pride in offering the best service possible. It’s wonderful to know our efforts are paying off. Your comment helps us to know we have made a difference to those we serve every day.
Breakfast with Santa! Saturday, December 1st from 9-11AMOssian United Methodist Church201 W. Mill Street in Ossian, In 46777Come have pancakes, deiolcius egg casseroles, smoky links, cereal, donuts, dutch crunch dessert, Coffee, milk and juice something for everyoneHave your children’s picture taken with Santa and then they can shop in the Elf Store for their family members. Elves will be available to help them shop so they can keep it a surprise! All gifts are $2 and gift wrapping is included. This is a fun, holiday event sponsored by the Norwell High School Show ChoirSee you there!
John, you are right but I’m sure you’ll get a lot flack for telling the truth. I had to go to a SS office (for sure I would do anything I could not to have to go to one but after all the BS about what you can do online, I still had to go to an office). I found the address online and used my GPS to find the office in North Platte, NE. After finding the general location I drove around for another 30 minutes trying to spot the address given on the website. It DIDN’T EXIST!
So I called SS and did the 15 minutes on hold while being assaulted with their stupid recordings, especially those telling me to not bother them and do my business online. I finally got to talk to someone in that office and found out that the building used to be a post office so I should look for a post office.
I found that post office building and it had NO ADDRESS ON IT, and not a clue that a Social Security office was inside.
Adding insult to injury, SSA tells us we don’t get a COLA this year and IN FACT, REDUCED MY CHECK BY $1!!! What planet are those people living on? SS recipients don’t spend much on gas, the only thing that got cheaper. But my utilities and food cost more than 20% more over last year. Then there’s the hospital bills that are driving me toward bankruptcy. Whatever Medicare decides not to pay, the patient has to pay 20% of what’s left, even after paying deductibles and copays. Nobody seems to be doing anything about the outrageous overbilling bill-padding the hospitals do. My hospital bill is full of overbilling, and meds and procedures that never happened. When I tried to get justice, I was told if I admit I was in the friggin’ hospital, I’d need to get a lawyer to fight any of the fraud and bill-padding done by Swedish Medical in Inglewood, CO.
John – You are speaking the truth. I have tried numerous days and different hours of day to speak with someone in the SSA office calling the national toll free contact number. It is impossible ! My suggestion is to go to your local SSA and wait hours in line to ask your questions. If you know they are giving you incorrect information then at least you can ask for verification of the information in person. You have a better chance of getting a correct answer.
Getting through on the phone varies from office to office depending upon staffing. Having a phone # published other than the national # also varies and is too difficult to explain here. This article is only saying that if you have a smart phone they can direct you to the local office. The staff at the local offices are well trained and I find your remark to be disingenuous. What is true though is the SSA is emphasizing applications by phone, hence reduced staffing levels. They have the last few years reduced the hours they are open to the public so that the reduced staffs can process claims. File by phone.
Can one recieve both SS checks & Non-service connected VA pension?
yes, definitely. VA has no effect on SS checks. VA pension (and any other income/resources) WILL have an effect on SSI, which is a needs-based benefit.
Your answer is incomplete. See below.
Maybe not. The SS check (not SSI) does not effect the VA pension, but the VA pension is needs based just like the SSI. So you could have your VA reduced or eliminated upon receipt of any other type of income. You must report changes in income to VA.
Thank you for your question, Isidoro. Your Social Security benefits are paid based on your previous work and you paying into the Social Security program. Other income will not affect your monthly benefit amount. However, other income can affect benefits paid under the Supplemental Security Insurance Income (SSI) program, which are benefits paid to disabled individuals with limited income and resources.
I have 30 years of social security credit and I am a teacher in Connecticut. When I retire with 15 years of teaching service, how much of my social security will I lose? I thought it was 10% since I have 30 years of ss credit. Am I correct?
does CT teacher job take out SS taxes? If yes, there’s no offset. If no, that’s called non-covered employment and if you get a pension from that non-covered employment, SSA is offset. Technically, benefits are calculated differently under the Windfall Elimination Provision and the different comp results in a lower SSA benefit. Click the link below if you need more details on WEP: https://www.ssa.gov/planners/retire/wep.html
It depends upon substantial work activity over 30 years.
Hi Margaret. The Windfall Elimination Provision doesn’t apply if you have 30 or more years of substantial earnings under Social Security. See our Retirement Planner: How the Windfall Elimination Provision Can Affect Your Social Security Benefit and see how your Social Security benefit can be reduced because of WEP if you have fewer than 30 years of substantial earnings.
I have a TBI TRAMADIC BRAIN INJURY and I am on ssdi…. is there anyone that can help.me file for SNAP benifits
depends on what state you live in. Click the link below, then select your state. http://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/apply
Hi Liz, for information about the food stamps program, also called the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), you will need to contact your local SNAP office. You will also find a list of States that allow you to apply online. We hope this information helps!
I’d recommend you contact your local county public assistance office.
I am 66 years old, received a SSA benefits since June 2015. I am still working and want to know, will I have an increase on SSA benefits this year.
Maybe! SSA uses your highest 35 years of earnings to calculate your monthly pension. If this year’s earnings are higher than the 35 we’re already using, you get a raise. If it’s not, benefit stays the same. SSA calculates this automatically every year once your wage information gets sent to IRS by your employer.
if you want to find out quicker, you can visit SSA with your W2 when you get it and ask for a re-calculation
In regards to bill H. R. 1314 House Budget Act sec 831, what if anything can we do to keep from being part of the reduction in benefits. What is the eligibility needed to apply for any exclusion of this lowering of benefits prior to May 1, 2016?
Thank you for your question. Section 831 of the Bipartisan Budget Act (BBA) of 2015 eliminates aggressive claiming loopholes related to “deemed” filing and voluntary suspension of benefits. The new law will be implemented on a prospective basis only. Our legislative and policy staffs are diligently working with Congress to analyze the intent of the legislation and update our instructions. Please check back for updates.
kindly clarify, including timing regarding filing, for
AUXILLARY SPOIUSAL BENEFITS STARTING AGE 66.
WHAT PHONE NUMBER SHALL I CALL AND WHICH
OFFICE SERVES ME. MY ZIP CODE IS 10075.
IT’S A BIT CONFUSING AS I KEEP RECEIVING
DIFFERENT ANSWERS.
I DO NOT HAVE SUFFICIENT WORK CREDITS
TO RECEIVE SS BENEFITS BUT I HAVE BEEN
TOLD BENEFITS ARE AVAILABLE AS MY HUSBAND
IS RECEIVING BENEFITS ON HIS ACCOUNT. I ALSO
HAVE BEEN TOLD THAT THOSE BENEFITS PAID TO
ME WILL NOT REDUCE OR OTHERWISE ALTER MY
HUSBAND’S PAYMENTS. WOULD APPRECIATE
RECEIVING ACCURATE AND COMPLETE DETAILS.
MANY THANKS.
using the SSA field office locator: http://www.socialsecurity.gov/locator
your office is on the 5tf floor on 237 W 48th St, NY NY 10036. You can reach them at 1-800-772-1213, which is also the agency’s toll free number (they have no local number).
You could collect on a spouse’s record as long as you do not qualify for a non-covered SS pension. Also, if you qualify for benefits on your husband’s record, it will not affect his own SS benefits.
Contact your local office and they can advise you on amounts you qualify for and best time to file.
Hi Victoria, thank you for reaching out to us. Even if you have never worked enough under Social Security, you may be able to get spouse’s retirement benefits if you are at least 62 years of age and your spouse is receiving retirement or disability benefits. Benefits paid to you as a spouse will not decrease your spouse’s retirement benefit.
You can apply for spouse’s benefits online, if you are within 3 months of age 62 or older, or by calling our toll-free number at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). Representatives are available Monday to Friday between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Or visit your local Social Security office. An appointment is not required, but if you call ahead and schedule one, it may reduce the time you spend waiting to apply.
I am 63 yoa n drawing SS DISABILITY. Is it possible that I could draw more if I file on my deceased husband. I am also getting a disabled widows benefit n drawing a retirement check.
contact your local office as every situation is different. Depends on how much you are currently receiving compared to how much you might be eligible for on your deceased husband’s record. SSA will guide you by reviewing all options and letting you choose what you feel is best at this time.
Thank you. I will contact my local office n make an appointment.
Hi Janet. It sounds like you are already receiving benefits under your deceased husband’s record as a disabled widow. For security reasons we do not have access to personal records in this forum. Please call our toll free number at 1-800-772-1213 if you have questions about your current benefits.
I was supposed to get my full retirement at age 66, but was told it was deferred until I reach the age of 70. I think this is unfair. Your website says one thing and the employees do another. It stated that if you were born between 1943 and 1955 your full retirement age was 66. I retired in 2012 at age 65. I truly need some real reasons why I was denied this,
sounds like confusion between you and the rep who assisted you. You can get full retirement at 66 (that is 100% of your retirement pension). File before then and you get a reduction. If you do the opposite you get what’s called delayed retirement credits, which allow you to get more than 100% of your benefit. If you wait until 70, you get the maximum delayed retirement credits. If you were asking SSA how to get your maximum benefit, age 70 is the answer. If you want 100% of your benefit, age 66 is the answer.
Bottom line – the decision should be yours, and only yours.
I was DENIED. Was told I had to wait
Your full retirement age is age 66. If you draw any months prior to that your benefits are reduced by a % representing the months you were paid. The reductions are permanent. If you were working and missed receiving payment for some months there could be an adjustment at 66 called an ARF.
You need to tell the North Platte, NE office to GET AN ADDRESS! The building SSA is in HAS NO ADDRESS, so how the hell can anyone find it???? Is this office only for those who know how to find it despite the fact it has NO ADDRESS on the building???
I live in Texas, began benefits at the age of 67, had monthly benefits reduced significantly in 2015 due to a capital gain income by selling stock in 2013 to pay cash for a primary residence. I would like to have an understanding of how paid-in benefits can be taken away.
Contact your local office. There may be a mistake. They might have thought you received wages and not capitol gains.
Hi Enos. Generally, we suspend or reduce benefits to collect an overpayment. An overpayment occurs when Social Security pays you more than you should have been paid. Unfortunately, your question is a bit more complex than we can answer in this forum. For your security, we do not have access to information about your account in this venue. Please contact your local office or call 1-800-772-1213, M-F between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. and ask a representative to assist you. Generally, you’ll have a shorter wait time if you call later in the week.
I have a guestion? I’m 66 year old if i’m died at age 70 .What age my wife can drawing my money.Thank You
A widow can draw benefits as early as age 60 and if disabled maybe earlier.
Hi. Your wife could be eligible to receive widow’s benefits as early as age 60 (50 if she is disabled under our rules).
When I die, what does my wife have to do to get my retirement pay?
Thank you
Bill
When she files at the local office or by phone for the lump sum death allowance they will also take a claim from her as a widow unless she’s on your record receiving as a wife, then she’s a conversion case. DO NOT think that the Funeral Home will do this for you, they only tell SS you are deceased to stop your check.
Thank you for your question, Billie. Your wife could receive widow’s benefits as early as age 60 (50 if she is disabled under our rules). For more information on how to apply for survivors benefits, please visit this link.
Four years ago my online social security account was suspended due to fraud. This happened to several people in my state. To reactivate the account I’m told I have to appear in person at the Social Security office in my area. That office is almost 40 miles from where I live. I am disabled and have no way to get there. Is there an alternative way to reactivate the account?
Yes, if you call them they can send a Field Representative to your house. What have you been doing for 4 years?
Hi Judith, please call 1-800-772-1213 for assistance. After you hear “Briefly tell me why you are calling,” say “Help Desk” for help with a my Social Security account. Also, you can call your local Social Security office directly and explain your situation. Thanks!
I have a Social Security benefit issue that requires a visit to my local SSA office. I have been told that visits to SSA offices are best made by appointment. After calling the toll-free national number (1-800-772-1213 – for some reason, local SSA branch office phone nembers are not available on the SSA website) and waiting over an hour on hold/muzak/info announcements, a customer service person picked up my call. I gave her my contact information & was told by that person to expect a call from my local office within 7 days. Well, it’s been over two weeks and no return call. I guess SSA really doesn’t want to do business over the phone and their diligence in returning phone calls for appointments is sadly wanting. Guess I’ll settle down with a cup of cofffee and a good book while I wait to call another SSA customer service rep for another run-around.
Rather than sipping on coffee go into the local office without an appointment. Stay away from Mondays and Wednesdays and the noon hour.
Sorry to say I also had the worst experience at my (previous) local SS office at Oak Street in Patrchaogue NY. I first tried to call your national 800 number and after waiting more than 20 miuntes and listening to the prerecorded tapes a couple of different days I went to the local office in patchogue. I got my ticket with calling number and there were about 40 people ahead of me. I waited for about two hours and my turn came. (well this 40 people and long wait was not SS Office fault) and now listen to this. When my number was called I went to the lady (at that one of the 8 windows), told her that I wanted info about rules and procedures in continuing the receive SS Benefits if I an American, moved to live overseas to stretch my dollar. She readily replied “you have to wait several more hours” No additional comment. Obviously unhappy I asked if I had to get another ticket # to be called again. She said “No number your name will be called”. This meant I would not be able to step out for a few minutes or even go to the rest room fearing I could miss the call to me by name and would not even know if I was or was not called during that brief absence from the room. The lady showed no respect to this concern of mine. I left that office (could not bear to sit there for several more hours waiting).
I returned after about a week and faced a similar routine and same answers. I asked for relevant brochures that I could read (proper brochure was missing from their take out caddies) saying that may be I could handle the matter by mail. The lady responded they did have the brochure but in the back room and they were too busy to send some one back there to fetch me one. At that point I asked to see her supervisor. She retorted “I am the supervisor”. Frustrated I came back home and started written communications with the SSB main office in Baltimore (not to complain but find rules and procedures) They helped and advised competently and adequately and I was able to equip myself with the required information. I can never forget that arrogant and nasty behavior of those ladies in that office. Calling your national 800 number only finds simplistic phone attendants without proper knowledge and training. Of course your appreciably responsive Main office in Baltimore and my ability to do extensive written communications did the job to my satisfaction. For a while I thought of filing complaints for record but then decided against it since I already felt exhausted and also the experience with Baltimore office was pretty satisfactory.
This should not happen to anyone. If a supervisor is rude ask to talk to the District or Branch Manager. If that does not work ask for the phone # of the Area Manager, then the Regional Manager. Stick to your guns. Oh, and don’t accept the 1-800 #.
Sorry Mr. Walker, but most of the SSA field offices in all urban areas are already wall-to-wall with customers all-day, each and every workday. Long waits are the rule, not the exception.
Speaking with an employee face-to-face, is NOT easier than ever!
You are totally correct, staffing continues to be cut!!
If you earned your social security than take it as soon as you are eligible to receive it because you may die and not get one penny.
My Wife is drawind Disability , she is (68) , can she draw her Social Sercurity along with Disability entilements ?
once a person reaches retirment age 65 or 66 your ss disabity converts to regular retiremint & the beneifit amount is the same.
Hi Johnny. For those individuals receiving disability benefits under the Social Security Disability Insurance program, we automatically convert their disability benefits to retirement benefits when they attain their Full Retirement Age. Generally, the benefit amount remains the same.
Hello,
If I can not get an issue resolved at the local SS office or by the #800, what is my next step? I have patiently been trying to get this issue resolved for more than 3 months, with 3 physical office visits, contacts with a specific person in the office, and dozens of phone calls locally and at the 800#. I understand SS administration and employee’s are very busy, however I need this addressed.
Thank you.
call your congressman. they are able to contact management, and sometimes regional reps to get the wheels turning
This is one of the most frustrating and disturbing comment sections I have seen on your pages here. I feel it could be an excellent tool for questions to be answered if handled properly. For instance are Josh and John OMalia Social Security employees or contract employees as they seem to respond quite often yet don’t quite seem to fall under those with some of the responses I have seen. I have noticed on occasion when a real SSA employee responds.
I retired from SSA and worked under the World Class Service method. I know that by going to the http://www.SSA.gov website there are publications that cover many of the questions asked here. I also know that when calling the 800# there is an option for someone to call you back and they give you a pretty accurate time of when you can expect a call back. There is ALWAYS a wait in your local offices and it is true that the hours have been cut as to their availability although some has been restored with the exception of Wednesdays. The ability for those who need to reach Social Security, be it by phone or in person, is a necessity because no matter how much internet contact is desired there are many who have no internet access nor the knowledge to maneuver effectively internet applications.
I myself have encountered some rude and very unknowledgeable employees but I do have the advantage of knowing when I am getting bad info due to my knowledge of the programs. The general public whom are supposed to be served with courtesy and knowledge do not have that.
Social Security is a very beneficial program and the lifeline for many even though it was set up to only supplement other retirement sources of income. There are too many people who need and are deserving of courtesy and accuracy in knowledge of the programs and this comment section today I found especially disturbing and does nothing to encourage the public they are being served with respect or that garners confidence.
I also think what some people prefer doing business in person… How to find the address of the Social Security office closest to me?
Grace
Hi Grace, you can use our Social Security Office Locator to find the address to your local office.
Hi Ray,
Thank you for answer!
I’ll do
Grace
I would like to know if I stay on Social Security Disablity and SSI once I turn 66 on Febuary 2nd of this year or how does that work?Some people say I will go on retirement this year and I should have gotten a letter stating what will happen.And do I still get SSI or how does this work?Will I get the Disability and SSI same amount or will it all go on one?Please let me know.
Hi Linda. If you attain your full retirement age at 66, we will automatically convert your Social Security disability benefits to retirement benefits. The benefit amount will generally remain the same, and you should receive a letter notifying you of this change. The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program is a needs-based program that pays benefits to disabled adults and children who have limited income and resources. SSI benefits are also payable to people 65 and older without disabilities who meet the financial limits. If you have low income and limited resources, you may continue to be eligible to receive both benefits. We hope this information helps.
I turn 66 in June (Full retirement age for me). My wife turns 66 in August. She has been receiving retirement benefits from her own history since 2014 (reduced amount). If I apply for retirement benefits in August, am I correct that;
1. She could apply for Spousal Benefits and receive the full 50% of my benefit amount?
2. There would be no restriction on my working as I’d be more than my full retirement age?
4. The initial payment for myself and the spousal benefit would be in September?
Hello Cliff, thank you for your questions.
1- We will check to see if your wife can receive a higher benefit on your record, at the time that you apply for your retirement benefit. Spouse’s Benefits can be as much as half of the worker’s primary insurance amount depending on the spouse’s age at retirement. Reduction factors are permanently applied when individuals begin receiving benefits between age 62 and their full retirement age.
2- Yes, at age 66, you will reach full retirement age in 2016. The limit on your earnings for the months before full retirement age is $41,880. Starting with the month you reach full retirement age, you can get your benefits with no limit on your earnings.
3- Social Security benefits are paid the month after they are due. So, for instance, if you want your benefits to begin with the month of June, you will receive your first benefit payment in July. Please visit our Social Security Retirement Planner for more information.
Remember that our system is set up to take applications three months in advance, and you can apply for your benefits online.
Thank You. It”s the Spouse Benefit question that I have not seen a clear answer or example for.
Hi again Cliff. Our “Benefits By Year Of Birth Chart” lists age 62 reduction amounts and includes examples based on an estimated monthly benefit of $1000 at full retirement age. We hope this helps.
I understand that my wife received a reduced amount based on her earnings. What I haven’t found an answer for is how the Spousal Benefit will be calculated when I apply for benefits, on my earnings, and both of us will be at full retirement age. Does she get the 50% of my benefit or something else?
Hi Cliff. If a person begins to receive benefits at age 62 or prior to their full retirement age, their benefits are reduced. The reduction factors are permanently applied to all of the benefits the person may qualify for. Your wife may still be eligible to collect reduced benefits on your record. Remember, if someone is eligible for both, his or her own benefit and for benefits as a spouse, we always pay their own first. If their spousal benefits are higher than their own retirement benefits, he or she will get a combination of benefits equaling the higher spouse benefit. If you have specific questions, please call our toll free number at 1-800-772-1213, Monday through Friday, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. and speak with one of our representatives.
SS may be easy to find but if you live in a foreign country your communication like is finished. If the country you live in does not have a SS section then the embassy’s assistance will be to pass you off to another country’s embassy. If you contact the SS in the other country,they can not find time to do anything without a 2 month wait. Then more than 2 months is required to have action taken. If you send letters by postal service to the US they will not be answered. You cannot register to do anything using the Internet if you live in another country (except posting a bog).. Basically if out of the US your communication with the US is finished!
what is all the hoopla about a bill that was passed and will be effective may 2016? anybody know?
Thank you for your question Barbara. Section 831 of the Bipartisan Budget Act (BBA) of 2015 eliminates aggressive claiming loopholes related to “deemed” filing and voluntary suspension of benefits. The new law will be implemented on a prospective basis only. Our legislative and policy staffs are diligently working with Congress to analyze the intent of the legislation and update our instructions. Please check back for updates.
what is this bill that was passed and will become effective may 1st 2016 and will affect ss.?
The SSA misspelled my daughter’s last name on her social security card. She was born in Russia and adopted by my husband and I as an infant. Her name is correct on her birth certificate. I would like to visit a social security office with her to get this corrected so that she can apply for an ID at the DMV. First, do we have to visit the office in our zip code or can we go to one that is more convenient for us to get to? Second, does she need both her parents there to verify anything? and finally, we do need her to have an ID quickly; will the change take a long time to process. Thanks very much
Hi Josie, you may visit the Social Security office or card center closest to you. See what documents your daughter will need to correct her name on the card. We hope this helps.
I have 2 minor children that live with me who receive survivor’s benefits. The children came to live with me in May and I made an appointment right away with our local office to become their representative payee. At my appointment, on June 6, I went through the application process for both of them. Benefits started arriving July 1 for one of the children and as of today the other child has not received any of his. I called right away in July to question this and was told there was some type of computer glitch on their end for the child’s benefits and that they were working on it. I have made a dozen different calls over the last few months and each time I am told something different and that they are working on it, someone will call me back and that it should be resolved within the next 15 days. I never receive a call back and after 2 weeks I end up calling again. Also, during this time the benefits have been incorrectly deposited into the account of the child’s mother and the last time they weren’t even able to tell me if they were able to get them back. I have asked multiple times what I can do to get this straightened out and never get an answer, the local office tells me it’s on the payment office end and the payment office tells me it’s on the local end. Can anyone please tell me what I can do, or who I can talk to so I can get this child his benefits?