-black.png){kind=logo}
Social Security Benefits: What They Are and How to Take Full Advantage of Them
Social Security benefits in the United States provide an important source of income support for retired people and people with disabilities and survivors of deceased workers. The Social Security Administration (SSA) is responsible for managing a program that guarantees a monthly income (for all eligible beneficiaries) based on their working history (work and contribution) over time.
Types of SSA Benefits
1. Retirement Benefits
Retirement benefits are the most common benefit available. Workers that are 62 years old or older can apply for retirement benefits. The longer you wait, the more your monthly payment amount increases (maximum 70).
2. Disability Benefits (SSDI)
If you cannot work due to a permanent (long-term) disability, you can apply for financial assistance through SSDI. However, you must have a qualifying condition, along with a work history.
3. Survivors Benefits
Survivors benefits are available for family member beneficiaries of deceased worker(s). Beneficiaries in the family can include spouse(s), children, and in some situations, parent(s).
4. Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
SSI is provided for low-income individuals. However, SSI is available to people who are 65 years old (or blind or disabled). Unlike SSDI, SSI is not based on your work history.
Who qualifies for Social Security?
Whether or not you qualify depends on:
• Work Credits: You can earn a maximum of 4 credits a year; typically, you need 40 credits (10 years of work).
• Age: Retirement benefits start at 62 but full retirement benefits start at 66 - 67 depending on the year you were born.
• Medical Conditions: For Disability Benefits, you have to have a certified condition that limits your ability to work.
How to apply for Social Security Benefits
Applying is easy and can be done in 3 ways:
• Online at ssa.gov
• Over the phone at 1-800-772-1213
• In-person at your local Social Security office (an appointment is recommended).
Make sure to have:
• Birth Certificate
• Social Security number
• Tax documents
• Medical records (if applying for disability benefits)
How Much Will You Get?
The amount will depend on:
• Your Average Indexed Monthly Earnings (AIME)
• The age you start collecting Social Security
• Your lifetime contributions to Social Security tax.
As of 2025, the average monthly Social Security retirement benefit is about $1,900 but this may be higher or lower based on your work history.
How to Take Advantage of Your Social Security Benefits
• Wait until you are 70 years old to retire to receive maximum retirement benefits.
• Maximize all spousal benefits for married couples to maximize your total household income.
• Continue to work longer to allow you to replace the lower paying work months/years from your working history to minimize the impact of those in determining your benefit amounts.
• Check your Social Security statement each year and make sure it does not contain any errors.
Frequently Asked Questions About Social Security
Q: Are any of the Social Security benefits taxable?
A: Yes, some of your benefits may be taxable, with up to 85% being taxable. More commonly, it depends on your income level.
Q: Can I work and still receive the benefits?
A: Yes, you may work while receiving the Social Security benefits, however if you exceed a certain income amount before you reach full retirement age, you benefits may be reduced.
Q: If I receive a denial for my disability claim, is there a period to do an appeal?
A: Yes, you can file an appeal for a reason for denial of your disability claim online or by written request within 60 days from the date of the decision you received.
In closing
Understanding when and how to proceed with applying and/or initiating your Social Security benefits is an important consideration part of being able to fully plan your financial needs in the future. Whether preparing to retire, looking to deal with a disability, or thinking about ease for your family's future, planning and making decisions today about how and what you want to do with Social Security will maximize your benefits for tomorrow. Plan ahead, look at your personal situation for eligibility, or take advantage of all the SSA's tools to make family and individual based, informed choices. The information and tools are there for your future security.
