Social Security benefits are paid in the month following the month for which they're due. This means that the benefit due for December would be paid to you in January 2019, and so on.


How Much You Will Receive


The amount of your monthly disability benefit is based on your lifetime average earnings covered by Social Security.


If you don't already have an estimate , you can get your online with your personal my Social Security account or use our Benefit Calculators to determine how much you would get if you became disabled right now.


Other Payments May Affect Your Disability Benefits


If you receive certain other government benefits, such as workers' compensation, public disability benefits, or pensions based on work not covered by Social Security for example, some government or foreign employment, the Social Security benefits payable to you and your family may be reduced.


For more information about how these benefits can affect your Social Security payments , refer to the following publications : How Workers' Compensation And Other Disability Payments May Affect Your Benefit ; Windfall Elimination Provision ; or Government Pension Offset.


Related Information Income Taxes And Your Social Security Benefits.


Medicare Coverage If You're Disabled


We automatically enroll you in Medicare after you get disability benefits for two years. The two parts of Medicare we enroll you in are hospital insurance and medical insurance. Hospital insurance Part A helps pay for inpatient hospital bills and some follow - up care. The taxes you paid while you were working financed this coverage , so it is provided at no cost to you. Medical insurance Part B helps pay doctors' bills, outpatient hospital care, and other medical services. You will need to pay a monthly premium for this coverage if you want it.


Most people have both parts of Medicare. If you have questions about this coverage , you can contact Medicare toll - free at to speak to a Medicare Customer Service Representative. TTY users should call


The Other Parts of Medicare


Medicare Advantage Part C. People with Medicare Parts A and Part B can choose to receive all of their health care services through plans that are offered by private companies and approved by Medicare. For more information , we recommend you read Medicare 's


Prescription Drug Coverage Part D helps pay for medications doctors prescribe for treatment. For more information on the enrollment periods for Part D , we recommend you read Medicare's page.


If you receive Medicare and have limited resources and income , you may be eligible for Extra Help with Medicare Prescription Drug Plan Costs.


Help For Low-Income Medicare Beneficiaries


If you get Medicare and have low - income and few resources , your state may pay your Medicare premiums and, in some cases, other Medicare costs for which you are normally responsible such as deductibles and coinsurance.


Only your state can decide if you qualify for this assistance. To find out if you do , contact your state or local welfare office or Medicaid agency.


For additional information about the program , please go to the Medicare's page.


If you need additional information about the other parts of Medicare , please read the " Who Can Get Medicare? " section of our Medicare booklet or visit Medicare.gov.


Disability Benefits What You Need To Know When You Get Social Security Disability Benefits Other Disability Publications


Benefits Planner: Survivors | How You Apply


We should be notified immediately when a person dies. However , you cannot report a death or apply for survivors benefits online.


If you need to report a death or apply for benefits , call 1 - 800 - 772 - 1213 TTY 1 - 800 - 325 - 0778. You can speak to a Social Security representative between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. You can also 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 speak to someone.


When You Report a Death


If you are getting benefits on your spouse's or parent's record : You generally will not need to file an application for survivors benefits. We'll automatically change any monthly benefits you receive to survivors benefits after we receive the report of death. We may be able to pay the Special Lump - Sum Death Payment automatically. If you are getting retirement or disability benefits on your own record : You will need to apply for the survivors benefits. We will check to see whether you can get a higher benefit as a widow or widower. If you are not getting benefits , you should apply for survivors benefits promptly because, in some cases, benefits may not be retroactive.


Documents Needed to Apply


Please select the benefit you will be applying for from the list below to see what information and documents you may need when you apply : Widows / Widowers or Surviving Divorced Spouse's Benefits Child's Benefits Mother's or Father's Benefits You must have a child under age 16 or disabled in your care. Lump - Sum Death Payment Parent's Benefits You must have been dependent on your child at the time of his or her death.


If you don't have all the documents you need , don't delay applying for Social Security.


In many cases , your local Social Security office can contact your state Bureau of Vital Statistics and verify your information online at no cost to you. If we can't verify your information online , we can still help you get the information you need.


my Social Security | Security and Protection


The Online Identity Verification Process


One of our most important responsibilities is protecting your investment and personal information. Social Security takes this responsibility very seriously , and we have a robust cybersecurity program in place to help us succeed. Our security process follows federal guidelines that includes additional security measures so we can be sure that you are who you say you are when you conduct online business with us.


To protect the privacy of your identity and your information , we are using a new identity verification process.


The new process : Requires you to sign in with a username and password ; Offers extra security ; and Complies with federal laws, regulations, and guidelines.


In addition to your username and password , you can choose either your cell phone or email address as your second identification method when you sign in to or register for my Social Security. Two forms of identification when signing in will help better protect your account from unauthorized use and potential identity fraud.


Each time you sign in to your account , you will complete two steps : Enter your username and password. Enter the security code we send by text message or email , depending on your choice cell phone provider text message and data rates may apply.


If you choose to receive your one - time security code through email , you can add NO-REPLY@ssa.gov to your contact list to make sure it does not go into your spam or junk folder.


For additional tips to help you stay safe and secure online please visit the Federal Trade Commission's OnGuard Online.


If You Cannot Or Do Not Want To Create An Account Online


If you are unable or unwilling to create an online account , you may still create an account in person by visiting your local Social Security office.


If You Want Extra Security


We offer you the choice to add extra security when you create an online account. In the past , we told you Social Security would never ask for your credit card number or other financial information. We have changed our policy for this one service. Now , we may ask you for the last eight digits of your Visa, MasterCard, or Discover credit card, or some other financial information. Once you give us this additional information , we will send you a letter in the mail in five to 10 business days. You will need this letter to complete the voluntary process to add extra security.


You can upgrade to extra security or disable it at any time. Adding extra security does not change the way that you sign in to your account. You must still sign in with your username, password, and a unique security code we will provide each time you sign in.


Internet Phishing Alert


Internet scam artists use clever phishing schemes to defraud millions of people each year. Phishing is the practice of using social engineering techniques over email to trick a recipient into revealing personal information, clicking on a malicious link, or opening a malicious attachment.


How can I detect a phishing email pretending to be Social Security?


Most emails from Social Security will come from a .gov " email address. If an email address does not end in .gov , use caution before opening attachments or clicking on pictures or links in the email. Currently , Social Security sends emails from no-reply@ssa.gov, subscription.service@subscriptions.ssa.gov and ThankYou@ssa.gov. Links, logos, or pictures in the body of an official Social Security email will always direct you to an official Social Security website. Rather than relying on the way a link looks , please follow these steps to confirm a link s authenticity : Below are examples of fraudulent websites pretending to direct you to Social Security. Noticethe location of the forward slash.


In a few instances , we use marketing firms to raise awareness of Social Security s online services , and this includes creating a my Social Security account. We allow these firms to send email directly to individuals. Any links you find within these emails should always point to a .gov/ web address.


To verify the web address of a link or picture , hover over it with your mouse until a text box appears with the web address. This is the actual address you will be directed to and it should always end in .gov/ A forward slash should always follow the .gov domain. Example - https://www.ssa.gov/myaccount/ Links to the official Social Security website will always begin with https://www.socialsecurity.gov/ or https://secure.ssa.gov/.


https://www.socialsecurity.gov.gmx.de/ http://www.socialsecurity.gov.bx.co.rx/setup


What should I do if I ve received a phishing email pretending to be from Social Security?


If you are not certain that an e - mail you received came from Social Security or one of our marketing firms , DO NOT respond to the email or click on any links contained in the email message. Report the incident by forwarding the suspicious email to the U.S. Computer Emergency Readiness Team US - CERT at phishing-report@us-cert.gov. http://www.us-nocert.gov/nav/report_phishing.html.


What are other tips I can use for detecting phishing emails?


Verify the sender. Exercise caution when receiving email from a sender you don t know or haven t heard from in a long time. Hover over the From email address to ensure it matches the displayed email or name of the sender. Look for poor choices in wording, phrasing, or spelling. If an email includes a business name, telephone number, or website link , verify the legitimacy of these items by searching for the official number or website in a search engine. Do not respond to emails requesting personal information. Reputable businesses and public agencies will not ask you for personal information in an email.


Are there other resources I can use to learn more about phishing?


To avoid security problems , please keep your web browser up to date. For more information about " phishing , " go to OnGuard Online.


If You Are Divorced


If you are divorced, but your marriage lasted 10 years or longer , you can receive benefits on your ex - spouse's record even if they have remarried if : You are unmarried ; You are age 62 or older ; Your ex - spouse is entitled to Social Security retirement or disability benefits ; and The benefit you are entitled to receive based on your own work is less than the benefit you would receive based on your ex - spouse's work.


If you remarry , you generally cannot collect benefits on your former spouse's record unless your later marriage ends whether by death, divorce, or annulment.


If your ex - spouse has not applied for retirement benefits, but can qualify for them, you can receive benefits on their record if you have been divorced for at least two years.


If you are eligible for retirement benefits on your own record and divorced spouse's benefits , we will pay the retirement benefit first. If the benefit on your ex - spouse's record is higher , you will get an additional amount on your ex - spouse's record so that the combination of benefits equals that higher amount.


If you continue to work while receiving benefits , the retirement benefit earnings limit still applies. If you are eligible for benefits this year and are still working , you can use our earnings test calculator to see how those earnings would affect your benefit payments.


If you will also receive a pension based on work not covered by Social Security, such as government work , your Social Security benefit on your ex - spouse's record may be affected.


If you need information about benefits your ex - spouse can receive based on your record , please read.


Benefits Planner: Disability


Disability is a subject you may read about in the newspaper, but not think of as something that might actually happen to you. But your chances of becoming disabled are probably greater than you realize.


Studies show that just over one in four of today's 20-year - olds will become disabled before reaching age 67.


While we spend a lot of time working to succeed in our jobs and careers , few of us think about ensuring that we have a safety net to fall back on should we become disabled. This is an area where Social Security can provide valuable help to you.


This disability planner helps you find out : how you can qualify and apply for benefits ; what happens if your application is approved ; who can receive benefits on your earnings record ; what you need to know about receiving disability benefits ; when Medicare coverage starts for Social Security disability beneficiaries ; and what happens if you go back to work.


Disability and Supplemental Security Income


We pay disability benefits under two programs : The Social Security disability insurance program pays benefits to you and certain family members if you worked long enough and paid Social Security taxes. Your adult child also may qualify for benefits on your earnings record if he or she has a disability that started before age 22. The Supplemental Security Income SSI program pays benefits to disabled adults and children who have limited income and resources.


For most people , the medical requirements are the same under both programs and disability is determined by the same process.


Whether you apply for Social Security disability or SSI , we ask you for information about your medical condition, work, and education history to help us decide if you are disabled under our rules.


Additional information about SSI can be found at " What Is Supplemental Security Income? "


Information for Advocates, Attorneys, and Third Parties


If you are an Advocate, Attorney, or Third Party Representative and you are helping someone prepare an online Social Security benefit application , there are some things you should know.


Direct Deposit


Set Up or Change Your Direct Deposit of Benefit Payment


Do you want to set up or change the direct deposit of your benefit payment? We are constantly expandingand improving our online services, including the ability to set up or change your direct depositinformation. If you already receive Social Security or Supplemental Security Income SSI benefitsand you have a bank account, simply log in to or create your personal and secure my Social Security account.


What is Direct Deposit?


Direct deposit is a simple, safe, and secure way to get benefits. If you need us to send your payment to abank or credit union account , have all of the following information ready when you apply. Social Security number Bank routing transit number Account type checking or savings Account number


How to Set Up or Change Direct Deposit of Benefit Payment Online Log in to your account. Sign in and Select the blue Benefits & Payment Details link on the right side of the screen. Scroll down and select the Update Direct Deposit button, and choose if you are the owner or co - ownerof the bank account. Enter your bank account information and select Next. Review and verify your banking information and select Submit then select Done. You can also decide when your change will take effect, by simply using the My Profile tab within mySocial Security.


Don't have a my Social Security Account?


Creating a free my Social Security account takes less than 10 minutes, lets you set up or change your direct deposit and gives you access to many other online services.


Additional information related to this service


As of March 1 , 2013 , you are required to receive your payments electronically. If you applied for benefitsbefore that date and did not sign up for electronic payments at that time , we strongly urge you to do sonow. For more information regarding switching to an electronic payment if you don t have a bank account , visit Treasury s Go Direct website or call the helpline at 1 - 800 - 333 - 1795.


Still have questions?


If you have questions or need help understanding how to set up or change direct deposit online , call ourtoll - free number at 1 - 800 - 772 - 1213 or visit your Social Security office. If you are deaf or hard of hearing , call our toll - free TTY number , 1 - 800 - 325 - 0778, between7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Monday through Friday.


my Social Security | Create an Account


To create a my Social Security account , you ll be askedto : Verify your identity by providing personal information about yourself and answering questions thatonly you are likely to know. Create a username and password you ll use to access your online account. Confirm your email address or phone number by entering a one - time security code within 10 minutes ofreceiving it in order to help keep your personal information safe.


Do you have a security freeze or fraud alert on your credit report?


If you have a security freeze, fraud alert, or both on your credit report , you can still open a my Social Security account by temporarily lifting it. Contact our Identity Services Provider and request that they temporarily lift your security freeze orfraud alert. Create a my Social Security account online after lifting the security freeze or fraud alert. Reinstate the security freeze or fraud alert with the Identity Services Provider if needed. When yourequest a temporary lift of your credit freeze or fraud alert , the Identity Services Provider mayautomatically reinstate it after your temporary lift expires.


If you don t want to temporarily lift your security freeze or fraud alert , you can visit your local Social Security office to open an account in person. For more information on security freezes and fraud alerts , read the Federal Trade Commission s Credit Freeze FAQs.


Your personal mySocial Security account is for your use only


Social Security is dedicated to protecting the information and resources entrusted to us, including your personal information and investment. For your protection , you re the only one who can create your personal my Social Security account for your own exclusive use. No one can create or use an account on your behalf, even with written permission. Don t share the use of your account with anyone else under any circumstances, as unauthorized use of this service is a misrepresentation of your identity to the federal government and could subject you to criminal or civil penalties, or both.


Explore the Benefits You May Be Due


You, or Your Family Members, May Be Eligible for Increased Benefits


Our mission is to deliver Social Security services that meet the changing needs of the public.


It's not unusual for a benefit recipient's circumstances to change after they apply or became eligible for benefits. If you, or a family member, receive Social Security or Supplemental Security Income SSI , certain life changes may affect eligibility for an increase in your federal benefits. For example , if your spouse or ex - spouse dies , you may become eligible for a higher Social Security benefit.


To find out if you, or a family member, might be eligible for a benefit based on another person s work, or a higher benefit based on your own work , see the information about benefits on the Social Security website. You can also use the Benefit Eligibility Screening Tool BEST to find out if you could get benefits that Social Security administers. Based on your answers to questions , this tool will list benefits for which you might be eligible and tell you more information about how to qualify and apply.


The questions and answers below are about a few of the life changes that could possibly increase your benefits.


If your spouse or ex - spouse has died , you may be eligible for a higher survivor benefit based on his or her work. The death of an ex - spouse may allow you to be eligible for a higher survivor benefit even if you are already receiving a survivor benefit on another spouse.


If you are at least age 65 , you may be eligible for cash benefits on your own record. If you are full retirement age or older , you can work and receive your monthly Social Security benefits, no matter how much you earn. Please review this publication for more information.


If your child had enough work credits and was providing at least half of your support , you may be eligible for a higher parent's benefit based on his or her work.


If you have worked , you may be eligible for a higher retirement benefit based on your own work.


If you have worked , you may be eligible for a higher disability benefit based on your own work.


If you are at least 62 years old and unmarried , you may be eligible for a benefit based on a former spouse s work if that marriage lasted 10 years or more.


You may be eligible for spouse's benefits if you have in your care a child who is under age 16 or disabled prior to age 22.


Your child may be eligible for benefits based on your work.


If you served in the U.S. military , you may be eligible for benefits through the Veterans Administration. Visit this link for more information: http://www.va.gov/


If you are unmarried and under age 18 or were disabled prior to age 22, and your parent is deceased or receiving Social Security benefits , you may be eligible for child benefits based on your parent s work.


You may be able to get additional income through the Supplemental Security Income program, which helps seniors and the disabled who have limited income and financial resources.


IMPORTANT : If you are receiving benefits , there are certain life events that you are required to report. For a complete list , please select the publication below that applies to the type of benefits you receive.


NOTE : Failure to report a change may result in an overpayment.


What You Need To Know When You Get Retirement Or Survivors Benefits 7 - 13


What You Need To Know When You Get Social Security Disability Benefits 11 - 18


What You Need To Know When You Get Supplemental Security Income SSI 7 - 19


Contacting Social Security


Our website is a valuable resource for information about all of Social Security's programs. There are a number of things you can do online.


In addition to using our website , you can call us toll - free at 1 - 800 - 772 - 1213. We treat all calls confidentially. We can answer specific questions from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday. Generally , you ll have a shorter wait time if you call during the week after Tuesday. We can provide information by automated phone service 24 hours a day. You can use our automated response system to tell us a new address or request a replacement Medicare card. If you are deaf or hard of hearing , you may call our TTY number , 1 - 800 - 325 - 0778.


We also want to make sure you receive accurate and courteous service. That is why we have a second Social Security representative monitor some telephone calls.


Related Information


Retirement Planner Disability Planner Survivors' Planner


Delayed Retirement Credits


Social Security retirement benefits are increased by a certain percentage depending on date of birth if you delay your retirement beyond full retirement age.


The benefit increase no longer applies when you reach age 70, even if you continue to delay taking benefits.


Increase for Delayed Retirement


If you've already reached full retirement age , you can choose to start receiving benefits before the month you apply. However , we cannot pay retroactive benefits for any month before you reached full retirement age or more than 6 months in the past.


If you decide to delay your retirement , be sure to sign up for just Medicare at age 65.


If you do not sign up , in some circumstances your Medicare coverage may be delayed and cost more.


Additional Information


What's the best time to start your retirement benefits? We're not recommending that you start at age 62, your full retirement age, age 70, or any age in between. Here's some additional information that may help you decide what's right for you : Early or Late Retirement? Retirement Information for Medicare Beneficiaries to Consider Other Things


Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Benefits


The Supplemental Security Income SSI program pays benefits to disabled adults and children who have limited income and resources.


SSI benefits also are payable to people 65 and older without disabilities who meet the financial limits.


People who have worked long enough may also be able to receive Social Security disability or retirement benefits as well as SSI. Learn more about SSI


How Do I Apply For SSI?


If you would like to apply for SSI benefits for :


An adult with a disability


You can now file for Supplemental Security Income SSI online but only if you meet certain requirements. You are eligible to file online for SSI if you : Are between the ages of 18 and 65 ; Have never been married ; Aren t blind ; Are a U.S. citizen residing in one of the fifty states, District of Columbia, or the Northern Mariana Islands ; Haven t applied for or received SSI benefits in the past ; and Are applying for Social Security Disability Insurance at the same time as your SSI claim. Find out if you are eligible to receive Social Security Disability Benefits.


Apply Online for SSI and Disability Benefits


Once you finish the online process , a Social Security representative will contact you for any additional information needed for the applications.


Learn more and start the disability process at our Disability Benefits page.


A child with a disability


Social Security does not yet have an online application for Children s benefits. Visit Apply For Disability Benefits Child Under Age 18 to apply for your child.


You can complete the online Child Disability Report if you are ready to apply now.


A person age 65 and older


Call us at 1 - 800 - 772 - 1213. If you are deaf or hard of hearing , you can call us at TTY 1 - 800 - 325 - 0778 , or Visit your local Social Security office. Call first to make an appointment.


Can I File An Appeal If My SSI Application Was Denied?


Yes , if we recently denied your SSI application , you can file an SSI appeal online. To learn more , read how to appeal a decision.


If You Already Receive SSI Benefits


Create a my Social Security


Benefits By Year Of Birth


Full retirement age is the age at which a person may first become entitled to full or unreduced retirement benefits.


No matter what your full retirement age also called " normal retirement age " is , you may start receiving benefits as early as age 62 or as late as age 70.


If You Retire Early


You can retire at any time between age 62 and full retirement age. However , if you start benefits early , your benefits are reduced a fraction of a percent for each month before your full retirement age.


The chart below lists age 62 reduction amounts and includes examples based on an estimated monthly benefit of $1000 at full retirement age. Select your year of birth to find out how much your benefit will be reduced if you retire between age 62 and full retirement age.


Full Retirement and Age 62 Benefit By Year Of Birth


Pros And Cons


There are advantages and disadvantages to taking your benefit before your full retirement age. The advantage is that you collect benefits for a longer period of time. The disadvantage is your benefit is reduced. Each person's situation is different. It is important to remember : if you delay your benefits until after full retirement age , you may be eligible for delayed retirement credits that would increase your monthly benefit ; that there are other things to consider when making the correct decision about your retirement benefits ; and to contact Social Security before you decide when to retire.


Benefits Planner: Disability | Your Continuing Eligibility


In most cases , you will continue to receive benefits as long as you are disabled. However , there are certain circumstances that may change your continuing eligibility for disability benefits. For example , your health may improve to the point where you are no longer disabled or you go back to work.


The law requires that we review your case from time to time to verify that you are still disabled. We tell you if it is time to review your case and we also keep you informed about your benefit status.


Reviewing Your Disability


In general , your benefits will continue as long as you are disabled. How often we review your case depends on whether your condition is expected to improve.


If medical improvement is : " Expected , " your case will normally be reviewed within six to 18 months after your benefits start. " Possible , " your case will normally be reviewed no sooner than three years. " Not expected , " your case will normally be reviewed no sooner than seven years.


What Can Cause Benefits to Stop?


Two things can cause us to decide that you are no longer disabled and to stop your benefits : if we decide that your medical condition has improved to the point that you are no longer disabled.


if you work at a level we consider " substantial. "


In 2019 , average earnings of $1,220 or more per month $2,040 or more per month if you are blind are usually considered substantial.


Remember , you are responsible for promptly reporting any improvement in your condition, or if you return to work. The booklet we send you when your application is approved explains what you need to report to us.


If You Go Back To Work


If you're like most people , you would rather work than try to live on disability benefits.


There are special rules that help you keep your cash benefits and Medicare while you test your ability to work. We call these rules " work incentives. " For more information about Social Security work incentives , read Working While Disabled : How We Can Help.


Disability Benefits What You Need To Know When You Get Social Security Disability Benefits How We Decide if You Still Have a Qualifying Disability Reviewing Your Disability Working While Disabled: How We Can Help Employment Networks in Social Security's Ticket To Work Program Your Ticket To Work


Appeal A Decision


If you were recently denied Social Security benefits or Supplemental Security Income SSI , you may request an appeal. Generally , you have 60 days after you receive the notice of our decision to ask for any type of appeal. There are four levels of appeal : Reconsideration , Hearing by an administrative law judge , Review by the Appeals Council , and Federal Court review Please see the bottom of page for information on the Federal Court Review Process.


You can request an appeal online for a reconsideration, a hearing by an administrative law judge, and a review by the Appeals Council, even if you live outside of the United States. When we made the first determination on your claim , we sent you a letter explaining our determination. This letter contains guidance on what level of appeal you should select.


To learn more about each appeal level , visit Information About Social Security's Hearings and Appeals Process.


Request a Reconsideration Online for a Medical Determination


If your disability claim was recently denied for medical reasons , you can request an appeal online.


A reconsideration is a complete review of your claim by someone who did not take part in the first determination. We will look at all the evidence submitted used in the original determination, plus any new evidence.


Request Medical ReconsiderationContinue Request for Medical Reconsideration You Started


Request a Reconsideration Online for a Non-Medical Determination


If you received a non - medical determination letter from us that you disagree with or you were denied for a reason that is not disability related for example: income, resources, overpayments, living arrangements, you can request a non - medical appeal online.


Request Non - Medical Reconsideration


Check the Status of Your Reconsideration


Whether you applied online, by phone, or in an office , you can check the status of your disability and SSI Reconsideration using your personal my Social Security account. A my Social Security account is an easy, convenient, and secure way to do business with us. If you don t have one , you can create one today.


Sign In or Create Account


Request a Hearing for a Medical Determination Online


A hearing is conducted by an administrative law judge who had no part in the original determination or the reconsideration of your case. The hearing is usually held within 75 miles of your home. If you disagree with the determination we made at the reconsideration level , you may request a hearing online.


You Started Request Medical HearingContinue Medical Hearing Request


Request a Hearing for a Non-Medical Determination Online


If you requested a reconsideration and received a non - medical determination letter from us that you disagree with or you were denied benefits for a reason that is not disability related for example: income, resources, overpayments, living arrangements , you can request a non - medical hearing online.


Request Non - Medical Hearing


Check the Status of Your Hearing


Whether you applied online, by phone, or in an office , you can check the status of your disability and SSI hearing using your personal my Social Security account. A my Social Security account is an easy, convenient, and secure way to do business with us. If you don t have one , you can create one today.


Request an Appeals Council review of a decision or dismissal made by an administrative law judge


The Appeals Council looks at all requests for review , but it may deny a request if it believes the hearing decision was supported and in accordance with social security law and regulations. If the Appeals Council decides to review your case , it will either decide your case itself or return it to an administrative law judge for further review. If you disagree with the hearing decision , you may request a review by Social Security s Appeals Council online.


Request Appeals Council Review


If you disagree with the Appeals Council's decision, or if the Appeals Council decides not to review your case , you can file a civil suit in a federal district court. This is the last level of the appeals process. Currently , this process is not available online. To learn more about this process , visit Federal Court Review Process.


You can also file an appeal by calling our toll - free number , 1 - 800 - 772 - 1213 TTY 1 - 800 - 325 - 0778 or contacting your local Social Security office.


Benefits Planner: Survivors | If You Are The Survivor


Just as you plan for your family's protection if you die , you should consider the Social Security benefits that may be available if you are the survivor that is, the spouse, child, or parent of a worker who dies. That person must have worked long enough under Social Security to qualify for benefits.


How Your Spouse Earns Social Security Survivors Benefits


A worker can earn up to four credits each year. In 2019 , for example , your spouse can earn one credit for each $1,360 of wages or self - employment income. When your spouse has earned $5,440 , they have earned their four credits for the year.


The number of credits needed to provide benefits for survivors depends on the worker's age when they die. No one needs more than 40 credits 10 years of work to be eligible for any Social Security benefit. But , the younger a person is , the fewer credits they must have for family members to receive survivors benefits.


Benefits can be paid to the worker's children and the surviving spouse who is caring for the children even if the worker doesn't have the required number of credits. They can get benefits if the worker has credit for one and one - half years of work 6 credits in the three years just before their death. Each person s situation is different and you need to talk to a Social Security claims representative about your choices.


When A Family Member Dies


We should be notified as soon as possible when a person dies. However , you cannot report a death or apply for survivors benefits online.


Does Social Security pay death benefits?


A one - time payment of $255 can be paid to the surviving spouse if he or she was living with the deceased; or, if living apart, was receiving certain Social Security benefits on the deceased s record.


If there is no surviving spouse , the payment is made to a child who is eligible for benefits on the deceased s record in the month of death.


What happens if the deceased received monthly benefits?


If the deceased was receiving Social Security benefits , you must return the benefit received for the month of death and any later months.


For example , if the person died in July , you must return the benefits paid in August. How you return the benefits depends on how the deceased received benefits : For funds received by direct deposit , contact the bank or other financial institution. Request that any funds received for the month of death or later be returned to Social Security. Benefits received by check must be returned to Social Security as soon as possible. Do not cash any checks received for the month in which the person dies or later.


Who receives benefits?


Certain family members may be eligible to receive monthly benefits, including : A widow or widower age 60 or older age 50 or older if disabled ; A surviving divorced spouse , under certain circumstances ; A widow or widower at any age who is caring for the deceased s child who is under age 16 or disabled and receiving benefits on their record ; An unmarried child of the deceased who is : Younger than age 18 or up to age 19 if he or she is a full - time student in an elementary or secondary school ; or Age 18 or older with a disability that began before age 22.


Are other family members eligible?


Under certain circumstances , the following family members may be eligible : A stepchild, grandchild, step grandchild, or adopted child ; and Parents , age 62 or older , who were dependent on the deceased for at least half of their support.


Widow Or Widower


If you are the widow or widower of a person who worked long enough under Social Security , you can : receive full benefits at full retirement age for survivors or reduced benefits as early as age 60. begin receiving benefits as early as age 50 if you are disabled and the disability started before or within seven years of the worker's death. receive survivors benefits at any age , if you have not remarried and you take care of the deceased worker's child who is under age 16 or is disabled and receives benefits on the worker's record.


If you remarry after you reach age 60 age 50 if disabled , your remarriage will not affect your eligibility for survivors benefits. A widow, widower, or surviving divorced spouse cannot apply online for survivors benefits. You should contact Social Security at 1 - 800 - 772 - 1213 to request an appointment. If you are deaf or hard of hearing, call our TTY number at 1 - 800 - 325 - 0778. If you wish to apply for disability benefits as a survivor , you can speed up the disability application process if you complete an Adult Disability Report and have it available at the time of your appointment. We use the same definition of disability for widows and widowers as we do for workers.


A few other situations:


If you already receive benefits as a spouse , your benefit will automatically convert to survivors benefits after we receive the report of death. If you are also eligible for retirement benefits but haven't applied yet , you have an additional option. You can apply for retirement or survivors benefits now and switch to the other higher benefit at a later date. For those already receiving retirement benefits , you can only apply for benefits as a widow or widower if the retirement benefit you receive is less than the benefits you would receive as a survivor.


Surviving Divorced Spouse


If you are the divorced spouse of a worker who dies , you could get benefits the same as a widow or widower, provided that your marriage lasted 10 years or more.


Benefits paid to you as a surviving divorced spouse won't affect the benefit amount for other survivors getting benefits on the worker's record.


If you remarry after you reach age 60 age 50 if disabled , the remarriage will not affect your eligibility for survivors benefits.


If you are caring for a child under age 16 or disabled and gets benefits on the record of your former spouse , you would not have to meet the length - of - marriage rule. The child must be your former spouse's natural or legally adopted child.


Minor Or Disabled Child


If you are the unmarried child under 18 up to age 19 if attending elementary or secondary school full time of a worker who dies , you can be eligible to receive Social Security survivors benefits.


And you can get benefits at any age if you were disabled before age 22 and remain disabled.


Besides the worker's natural children , their stepchildren, grandchildren, or adopted children may receive benefits under certain circumstances.


If you are the dependent parent , who is at least age 62 , of a worker who dies , you may be eligible to receive Social Security survivors benefits.


You must have been receiving at least half of your support from your working child and you must not be eligible to receive a retirement benefit that is higher than the benefit we could pay on your child s record. Generally, you must not have married after your deceased adult child s death ; however, there are some exceptions.


Besides being the natural parent , you could also be the stepparent, or the adoptive parent if you became the deceased worker s parent before he or she was age 16.


Survivors Benefit Amount


Your survivors benefit amount is based on the earnings of the person who died. The more they paid into Social Security , the higher your benefits would be.


The monthly amount you would get is a percentage of the deceased's basic Social Security benefit. It depends on your age and the type of benefit you are eligible to receive.


If the person who died was receiving reduced benefits , we base your survivors benefit on that amount.


These are examples of the benefits that survivors may receive : Widow or widower, full retirement age or older 100 percent of the deceased worker's benefit amount ; Widow or widower , age 60 full retirement age 71 to 99 percent of the deceased worker's basic amount ; Disabled widow or widower aged 50 through 59 71 percent ; Widow or widower , any age, caring for a child under age 16 75 percent ; A child under age 18 19 if still in elementary or secondary school or disabled 75 percent ; and Dependent parent of the deceased worker, age 62 or older : One surviving parent 82 percent. Two surviving parents 75 percent to each parent.


There may also be a special lump - sum death benefit.


Benefits for a widow, widower, or surviving divorced spouse may be affected by several additional factors : If you remarry before you reach age 60 age 50 if disabled , you cannot receive benefits as a surviving spouse while you are married. If you remarry after you reach age 60 age 50 if disabled , you will continue to qualify for benefits on your deceased spouse's Social Security record. If you receive benefits as a widow, widower, or surviving divorced spouse , you can switch to your own retirement benefit as early as age 62. This assumes you are eligible for retirement benefits and your retirement rate is higher than your rate as a widow, widower, or surviving divorced spouse. In many cases , a widow or widower can begin receiving one benefit at a reduced rate and then, at full retirement age, switch to the other benefit at an unreduced rate. If you will also receive a pension based on work not covered by Social Security, such as government or foreign work , your Social Security benefits as a survivor may be affected.


A Special Lump-Sum Death Payment


A surviving spouse or child may receive a special lump - sum death payment of $255 if they meet certain requirements.


Generally , the lump - sum is paid to the surviving spouse who was living in the same household as the worker when they died. If they were living apart , the surviving spouse can still receive the lump - sum if, during the month the worker died, they : were already receiving benefits on the worker's record or became eligible for benefits upon the worker's death.


If there's no eligible surviving spouse , the lump - sum can be paid to the worker's child or children if, during the month the worker died, the child : was already receiving benefits on the worker's record or became eligible for benefits upon the worker's death.


If the eligible surviving spouse or child is not currently receiving benefits , they must apply for this payment within two years of the date of death.


For more information about this lump - sum payment , contact your local Social Security office or call 1 - 800 - 772 - 1213 1 - 800 - 325 - 0778.


Benefits Planner: Disability | How You Qualify


To qualify for Social Security disability benefits , you must first have worked in jobs covered by Social Security. Then you must have a medical condition that meets Social Security's definition of disability. In general , we pay monthly benefits to people who are unable to work for a year or more because of a disability.


Benefits usually continue until you are able to work again on a regular basis. There are also a number of special rules, called " work incentives, " that provide continued benefits and health care coverage to help you make the transition back to work.


If you are receiving Social Security disability benefits when you reach full retirement age, your disability benefits automatically convert to retirement benefits , but the amount remains the same.


How Much Work Do You Need?


In addition to meeting our definition of disability , you must have worked long enough and recently enough under Social Security to qualify for disability benefits.


Social Security work credits are based on your total yearly wages or self - employment income. You can earn up to four credits each year.


The amount needed for a work credit changes from year to year. In 2019 , for example , you earn one credit for each $1,360 in wages or self - employment income. When you've earned $5,440 , you've earned your four credits for the year.


The number of work credits you need to qualify for disability benefits depends on your age when you become disabled. Generally , you need 40 credits , 20 of which were earned in the last 10 years ending with the year you become disabled. However , younger workers may qualify with fewer credits.


For more information on whether you qualify , read our publication ; How You Earn Credits.


What We Mean By Disability


The definition of disability under Social Security is different than other programs. Social Security pays only for total disability. No benefits are payable for partial disability or for short - term disability.


We consider you disabled under Social Security rules if : You cannot do work that you did before ; We decide that you cannot adjust to other work because of your medical condition ; and Your disability has lasted or is expected to last for at least one year or to result in death.


This is a strict definition of disability. Social Security program rules assume that working families have access to other resources to provide support during periods of short - term disabilities, including workers' compensation, insurance, savings, and investments.


How We Decide If You Are Disabled


If you have enough work to qualify for disability benefits , we use a step - by - step process involving five questions. They are:


1. Are you working?


If you are working in 2019 and your earnings average more than $1,220 a month , you generally cannot be considered disabled.


If you are not working , we will send your application to the Disability Determination Services DDS office that will make the decision about your medical condition. The DDS uses Steps 2 - 5 below to make the decision.


2. Is your condition "severe"?


Your condition must significantly limit your ability to do basic work such as lifting, standing, walking, sitting, and remembering for at least 12 months. If it does not , we will find that you are not disabled.


If your condition does interfere with basic work - related activities , we go to Step 3.


3. Is your condition found in the list of disabling conditions?


For each of the major body systems , we maintain a list of medical conditions that we consider so severe that it prevents a person from completing substantial gainful activity. If your condition is not on the list , we have to decide if it is as severe as a medical condition that is on the list. If it is , we will find that you are disabled. If it is not , we then go to Step 4.


We have two initiatives designed to expedite our processing of new disability claims : Compassionate Allowances : Certain cases that usually qualify for disability can be allowed as soon as the diagnosis is confirmed. Examples include acute leukemia, Lou Gehrig s disease ALS, and pancreatic cancer. Quick Disability Determinations : We use sophisticated computer screening to identify cases with a high probability of allowance.


For more information about our disability claims process , visit our Benefits For People With Disabilities website.


4. Can you do the work you did previously?


At this step , we decide if your medical impairment prevents you from performing any of your past work. It is doesn t, we ll decide you don t have a qualifying disability. If it does , we proceed to Step 5.


5. Can you do any other type of work?


If you can t do the work you did in the past , we look to see if there is other work you could do despite your impairment.


We consider your medical conditions and your age, education, past work experience, and any transferable skills you may have. If you can t do other work , we ll decide you are disabled. If you can do other work , we ll decide that you don t have a qualifying disability and your claim will be denied.


Special Situations


Most people who receive disability benefits are workers who qualify on their own records and meet the work and disability requirements we have just described. However , there are some situations you may not know about : If You're Blind Or Have Low Vision - How We Can Help If You Are The Worker's Widow Or Widower Benefits For A Disabled Child Benefits for Wounded Warriors & Veterans


Special Rules For People Who Are Blind Or Have Low Vision


We consider you to be legally blind under Social Security rules if your vision cannot be corrected to better than 20/200 in your better eye or if your visual field is 20 degrees or less, even with a corrective lens. Many people who meet the legal definition of blindness still have some sight and may be able to read large print and get around without a cane or a guide dog.


If you do not meet the legal definition of blindness , you may still qualify for disability benefits if your vision problems alone or combined with other health problems prevent you from working.


There are a number of special rules for people who are blind that recognize the severe impact of blindness on a person's ability to work. For example , the monthly earnings limit for people who are blind is generally higher than the limit that applies to non - blind disabled workers.


In 2019 , the monthly earnings limit is $2,040.


Benefits For Disabled Widows Or Widowers


If something happens to a worker , benefits may be payable to their widow, widower, or surviving divorced spouse with a disability if the following conditions are met : He or she is between ages 50 and 60 ; Their condition meets the definition of disability for adults ; and The disability started before or within seven years of the worker's death.


Widows, widowers, and surviving divorced spouses cannot apply online for survivors benefits. However , if they want to apply for benefits , they should contact Social Security immediatelyat to request an appointment. (If they are deaf or hard of hearing, they should call our TTY number at


If they are disabled , they can speed up the application process if they complete an Adult Disability Report and have it available at the time of their appointment.


Benefits For A Disabled Child


A child under age 18 may be disabled , but we don't need to consider the child's disability when deciding if he or she qualifies for benefits as your dependent. The child's benefits normally stop at age 18 unless he or she is a full - time student in an elementary or high school benefits can continue until age 19 or is disabled.


Adults Disabled Before Age 22


An adult disabled before age 22 may be eligible for child's benefits if a parent is deceased or starts receiving retirement or disability benefits. We consider this a " child's " benefit because it is paid on a parent's Social Security earnings record.


The " adult child " including an adopted child, or, in some cases, a stepchild, grandchild, or step grandchild must be unmarried, age 18 or older, have a disability that started before age 22, and meet the definition of disability for adults.


It is not necessary that the adult child ever worked. Benefits are paid based on the parent's earnings record. An adult child must not have substantial earnings. The amount of earnings we consider " substantial " increases each year. In 2019 , this means working and earning more than $1,220 a month.


What if the adult child is already receiving SSI benefits or disability benefits on his or her own record?


An adult child already receiving SSI benefits or disability benefits on his or her own record should still check to see if benefits may be payable on a parent's earnings record. Higher benefits might be payable and entitlement to Medicare may be possible.


How do we decide if an adult "child" is disabled for SSDI benefits?


If a child is age 18 or older , we will evaluate his or her disability the same way we would evaluate the disability for any adult. We send the application to the Disability Determination Services in your state that completes the disability decision for us.


What happens if the adult child gets married?


If he or she receives benefits as an adult disabled since childhood , the benefits generally end if he or she gets married. However , some marriages for example, to another adult disabled child are considered protected.


The rules vary depending on the situation. Contact a Social Security representative at (If you are deaf or hard of hearing, call TTY number at to find out if the benefits can continue.


Apply For Disability Benefits Child Under Age 18 Family Benefits


Disability Benefits Disability Starter Kits If You Are Blind Or Have Low Vision How We Can Help SSI Child Disability Starter Kit for children under age 18 Benefits For Children With Disabilities Other Disability Publications


Social Security Benefit Verification Letter


Get your Social Security Benefit Verification Letter online


Do you know how to get an income verification letter or benefit verification letter from Social Security? Just log in to my Social Security to get instant access to your benefit verification letter.


What is a Social Security Benefit Verification Letter?


The benefit verification letter, sometimes called a benefits letter, or a Social Security award letter, serves as proof of your retirement, disability, Supplemental Security Income SSI, or Medicare benefits. It also serves as proof that you have applied for benefits or that you have never received Social Security benefits or SSI.


You may also use your letter as proof for loans, housing assistance, mortgage, and for other income verification purposes.


A Social Security benefit verification letter includes : your name , date of birth , and the benefit you receive from us.


Sign in to your mySocial Security account to get your copy


Already have a my Social Security Account?


Sign In to your account below and go to Replacement Documents on the right side of the screen , then choose get a Benefit Verification Letter to view, save and print your personalized letter.


Creating a free my Social Security account takes less than 10 minutes, lets you download or print your benefit verification letter, and gives you access to many other online services.


If you have questions or need help understanding how to request your benefit verification letter online , call our toll - free number at 1 - 800 - 772 - 1213 or visit your Social Security office. If you are deaf or hard of hearing , call our toll - free TTY number , 1 - 800 - 325 - 0778, between7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Monday through Friday.


Getting Benefits While Working


You can work while you receive Social Security retirement or survivors benefits. When you do , it could mean a higher benefit for you in the future.


Each year we review the records for all working Social Security recipients. If your earnings for the prior year are higher than one of the years we used to compute your retirement benefit , we will recalculate your benefit amount. We pay the increase retroactive to January the year after you earned the money.


Higher benefits can be important to you later in life and increase the future benefit amounts your family and your survivors could receive.


How Much Can I Earn And Still Get Benefits?


If you are younger than full retirement age and make more than the yearly earnings limit , your earnings may reduce your benefit amount. (Full retirement age is 66 for people born between 1943 and 1954. Beginning with 1955, two months are added for every birth year until the full retirement age reaches 67 for people born in 1960 or later.)


If you are under full retirement age for the entire year , we deduct $1 from your benefit payments for every $2 you earn above the annual limit. For 2019 , that limit is $17,640.


You Can Apply For Retirement Benefits Or Medicare


Apply Online


The easiest and quickest way to apply for retirement, spouse's, ex - spouse's, or Medicare benefits is to apply online.


Apply By Phone


Call us at If you are deaf or hard of hearing , you can call us at TTY


Apply In Person


Visit your local Social Security office. Call first to make an appointment.


You must be at least 61 years and 9 months old to apply for retirement benefits. If you are already age 62 , you may be able to start your benefits in the month you apply. You should apply for benefits no more than four months before the date you want your benefits to start. Benefits are paid the month after they are due. If your benefits start in April, you will receive your first benefit payment in May. If you are not getting Social Security and you are not ready to retire , you should still use our online retirement benefit application to sign up for just Medicare three months before your 65th birthday.


When You Apply


Please be ready to supply the information we need to approve your application for these benefits : You Need To Apply For Retirement Benefits Or Medicare - Form SSA-1 Information You Need to Apply for Spouse's or Divorced Spouse's Benefits Information - Form SSA-2 You Need To Apply for Child's Benefits - Form SSA-4 Information


We may ask you to provide certain documents to show that you are eligible and help us decide how much your benefits should be. If you do not have a birth certificate , you may request one from the state where you were born. For details on where to write in your state , check.


Also , bring along your bank information so you can sign up for Direct Deposit. If you do not have a bank account you can sign up for the Direct Express card program. With Direct Express , deposits from federal payments are made directly to the card.


Other Retirement Planning Websites


Benefit Eligibility Screening Tool BEST to help identify other Social Security programs for which you may be eligible. The Employee Benefit Research Institute , Ballpark E$timator this calculator to get a basic idea of how much you need to save before you retire. Department of Labor DOL Publications And Reports page links to publications and consumer information on health benefits and retirement planning. Retirement Savings Toolkit page links to English and Spanish publications about retirement savings. " Planning for Retirement / Retiring" MyMoney.gov page provides links to a variety of retirement planning tools, including a Medicare Eligibility Tool. Retirement Resources USA.gov site provides a variety of financial planning tools, including a Federal Employees Retirement Calculator. Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC) (If you have or had a job with a defined benefit pension, the PBGC may be protecting your pension. If your pension plan was terminated, you may be able to use the PBGC's Find an Unclaimed Pension tool to find out if you have unclaimed benefits.)


Medicare Benefits


How To Apply Online For Just Medicare


You can apply online for Medicare even if you are not ready to retire. Use our online application to sign up for Medicare. It takes less than 10 minutes. In most cases , once your application is submitted electronically , you re done. There are no forms to sign and usually no documentation is required. Social Security will process your application and contact you if we need more information. Otherwise , you ll receive your Medicare card in the mail. Learn more about your Medicare card.


Apply for Medicare Only


Return to Saved Application|Check Application Status|Replace Medicare Card


Medicare is managed by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services CMS. Social Security works with CMS by enrolling people in Medicare.


For more information about applying for Medicare only and delaying retirement benefits , visit Applying for Medicare Only Before You Decide.


To find out what documents and information you need to apply , go to the Checklist For The Online Medicare, Retirement, And Spouses Application.


New Medicare Cards


To help protect your identity , Medicare has sent you a new Medicare card. Your new card will have a new Medicare Number that s unique to you, instead of your Social Security Number. If you did not receive your new Medicare card , there may be something that needs to be corrected, like your mailing address. You can update your mailing address by logging in to or creating your personal my Social Security account.


Learn about Medicare


Medicare is our country s health insurance program for people age 65 or older. Certain people younger than age 65 can qualify for Medicare, too, including those with disabilities and those who have permanent kidney failure. To learn more , read our Medicare publication.


Already Enrolled in Medicare


If you already have Medicare , you can get information and services online. Find out how to manage your benefits.


If you already have Medicare Part A and wish to sign up for Medicare Part B, please complete form CMS 40-B, Application for Enrollment in Medicare - Part B Medical Insurance, and take or mail it to your local Social Security office.


Anyone who has Medicare can get Medicare prescription drug coverage. Some people with limited resources and income also may be able to get Extra Help to pay for the costs.


Applying for Medicare


When you apply for Medicare , you can sign up for Part A Hospital Insurance and Part B Medical Insurance. Because you must pay a premium for Part B coverage , you can turn it down. However , if you decide to enroll in Part B later on , you may have to pay a late enrollment penalty for as long as you have Part B coverage. Your monthly premium will go up 10 percent for each 12-month period you were eligible for Part B, but didn t sign up for it, unless you qualify for a special enrollment period.


If you re eligible at age 65 , your initial enrollment period begins three months before your 65th birthday, includes the month you turn age 65, and ends three months after that birthday. However , if you don t enroll in Medicare Part B during your initial enrollment period , you have another chance each year to sign up during a general enrollment period from January 1 through March 31. Your coverage begins on July 1 of the year you enroll. Read our Medicare publication for more information.


Questions about our online application


When should I apply?


You can use our online Medicare application if you : Are at least 64 years and 9 months old ; Want to sign up for Medicare but do not currently have ANY Medicare coverage ; Do not want to start receiving Social Security benefits at this time ; and Are not currently receiving Social Security retirement, disability or survivors benefits.


You should sign up for Medicare three months before reaching age 65, even if you are not ready to start receiving retirement benefits. You can opt out of receiving cash retirement benefits now once you are in the online application. Then you can apply online for retirement benefits later.


With our online application , you can sign up for Medicare Part A Hospital Insurance and Part B Medical Insurance. Because you must pay a premium for Part B coverage , you can turn it down.


If you choose not to enroll in Medicare Part B and then decide to do so later , your coverage may be delayed and you may have to pay a higher monthly premium for as long as you have Part B. Your monthly premium will go up 10 percent for each 12-month period you were eligible for Part B, but didn t sign up for it, unless you qualify for a " Special Enrollment Period. "


Special Enrollment Period (SEP)


If you have medical insurance coverage under a group health plan based on your or your spouse's current employment , you may not need to apply for Medicare Part B at age 65. You may qualify for a " Special Enrollment Period " SEP that will let you sign up for Part B during : Any month you remain covered under the group health plan and your, or your spouse's, employment continues ; or The 8-month period that begins with the month after your group health plan coverage or the employment it is based on ends , whichever comes first.


Why apply for Medicare online?


Using the online Medicare application has a number of benefits. You can: Avoid trips to your Social Security Office, saving you time and money. Answer questions at your convenience by starting and stopping the application without fear of losing any information you entered. Make corrections to the application prior to submission. Submit your application electronically. There is no need to mail in your application. When you are finished , just select Submit Now to send your application to Social Security. Receive a receipt online for your application that you can print and keep for your records. Check the status of your application online. You will receive a confirmation number once you submit your application.


Once we receive your application , we will Review your application and contact you if we need more information or if we need to see your documents ; Process your application once we have all of the necessary information and documents ; and Mail you a decision letter.


Other Medicare registration/enrollment options


Change of Address


Change your Address and Telephone number online


Are you moving, currently receiving benefits or enrolled in Medicare and want to know how to change your address? You can change and update your information anytime, anywhere by logging in to or creating a free my Social Security account.


How to change your address?


If you get Social Security benefits retirement, survivors, or disability , you can update your contact information in a safe, quick, and convenient way by following these five steps : Log in to my Social Security. Select the My Profile link on the right side of the screen. Select the Update Contact Information button and enter your address information. Select when would you like to schedule the update, then select Next. Review and verify your information , select Submit.


This service is not currently available to people who receive Supplemental Security Income SSI or do not have a U.S. mailing address. However , if you are receiving SSI , you can easily check your address we have on record via the My Profile Tab on my Social Security.


Sign in to your mySocial Security account and update your information


Sign In to your account below and go to My Profile tab to change and update your contact information.


Creating a free my Social Security account takes less than 10 minutes, lets you change and update your information and gives you access to many other online services.


If you have questions or need help understanding how to change your address and telephone number online , call our toll - free number a 1 - 800 - 772 - 1213 or visit your Social Security office. If you are deaf or hard of hearing , call our toll - free TTY number , 1 - 800 - 325 - 0778, between7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Monday through Friday.


Benefits for People with Disabilities


Disability Starter Kits


Forms


Non - English Languages


Ticket to Work / Work Incentives


Representative Payment Program


Reporting Your Income


Medicare / Medicaid Services


Insure Kids Now


Social Security Handbook


Policy / Research


Program / Actuarial Data


Laws & Legislation


Hearings & Appeals


SSA Advisory Board


Factsand Figures


Frequently Asked Questions


The Social Security and Supplemental Security Income disabilityprograms are the largest of several Federal programs that provideassistance to people with disabilities. While these two programsare different in many ways , both are administered by the SocialSecurity Administration and only individuals who have a disabilityand meet medical criteria may qualify for benefits under eitherprogram.


Social Security DisabilityInsurancepays benefits to you and certain members of your familyif you are " insured, " meaning that you worked long enoughand paid Social Security taxes.


Supplemental Security Incomepays benefits based on financial need.


When you apply for either program , we will collect medical andother information from you and make a decision about whetheror not you meet Social Security's definition of disability.


Use the Benefits Eligibility Screening Toolto find out which programs may be able to pay you benefits.


If your application has recently been denied , the Internet Appeal is a starting point to request a review of our decision about your eligibility for disability benefits.


If your application is denied for : Medical reasons , you can complete and submit the required Appeal Request and Appeal Disability Report online. The disability report asks you for updated information about your medical condition and any treatment, tests or doctor visits since we made our decision. Non - medical reasons , you should contact your local Social Security Office to request the review. You also may call our toll - free number , 1 - 800 - 772 - 1213, to request an appeal. People who are deaf or hard of hearing can call our toll - free TTY number , 1 - 800 - 325 - 0778.


Report fraud , wasteand abuse


Compassionate Allowances


We Need About Your Work And Education Information


Benefits For Children With DisabilitiesProfessional RelationsGreen Book - Consultative Examinations: Guide For Health ProfessionalsBlue Book - Disability Evaluation Under Social Security


Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Fact Sheet


Neurological Teleconference Summary


Disability Claims Process Video Series


Applying for Medicare Only


If you are within three months of age 65 or older and not ready to start your monthly Social Security benefits yet , you can use our online retirement application to sign up just for Medicare and wait to apply for your retirement or spouses benefits later.


Before you decide , you need to be sure that you understand how waiting until later will affect : the lifetime benefits we can pay on your account and your health insurance coverage.


Lifetime Benefits We Can Pay On Your Record


You can start your retirement benefit at any point from age 62 up until age 70. Your benefit amountwill be higher the longer you delay starting it. This adjustment is usually permanent. If you: Apply for benefits before full retirement age , your benefitswill be reduced because you are taking them earlier. (Full retirement age is 66 for people born between 1943 and 1954. Beginning with 1955, two months are added for every birth year until the full retirement age reaches 67 for people born in 1960 or later.) If your full retirement age is 66 and you decideto start your retirement benefits at age 65 , your benefit will be 93.33 percent of yourfull benefit amount.


Delay receiving retirement benefits until after you reach full retirementage any month up to age 70 , you can increase your benefit by accumulating Delayed Retirement Credits. If your full retirement age is 66 and 2 months and you wait until age 70 , your benefitwill be 130.67 percent of your full retirement age benefit.


Have family members who qualify for benefits, a delay meansyou would lose some of the benefits they might have received. However , delaying benefitsalso increases the maximum monthly survivors benefit your spouse may receive.


If You Plan To Continue Working


Even if you plan to continue working , you may still be able to receive some benefits. If you areunder full retirement age and you earn over a certain amount , we will deduct the excess earnings from your benefits.


If you delay receiving benefits until the month you reach full retirement age , you may receive yourbenefits with no limit on your earnings.


For more information that will help you decide the best time to start benefits , please read Other Things To Consider.


Your Health Insurance Coverage


Medicare is our country's health insurance program for people age 65 or older. The program helpswith the cost of health care , but it does not cover all medical expenses or the cost of mostlong - term care.


Hospital insurance Part A helps pay for inpatient care in a hospital orskilled nursing facility following a hospital stay, some home health care, and hospicecare.


Medical insurance Part B helps pay for doctors services andmany other medical serAnyone who is eligible for free Medicare hospital insurance Part A can enroll in Medicare medical insurance Part B by paying a monthly premium. Some beneficiaries with higher incomes will pay a highermonthly Part B premium. To find out the premium amount you pay , read " ".


Should I Sign Up For Medical Insurance (Part B)?


When you sign up for Medicare , you will be asked if you want to enroll in Medical insurance Part B.


If you do not choose to enroll in Medicare Part B and then decide to do so later , your coverage maybe delayed and you may have to pay a higher monthly premium unless you qualify for a " Special Enrollment Period, " or SEP.


If you are age 65 or older and your medical insurance coverage is under a group health plan based on your, or your spouse's, current employment , you may not need to applyfor Medicare supplementary medical insurance Part B at age 65. You may qualify for a SEP thatwill let you sign up for Part B during :


Any month you remain covered under the group health plan and your, or your spouse's, employment continues ; or The 8-month period that begins with the month after your group health plan coverage or the employment it is based on ends , whichever comes first.


Exception : If your group health plan coverage or the employment it isbased on ends during your initial enrollment period for Medicare Part B , you do not qualifyfor a SEP.


Your initial enrollment period starts three months before the month you attain age 65and ends three months after the month you turn 65.


If you want to know more about enrollment periods for Part B , please read the information about generaland SEP in our " " booklet or talk to your personnel office before you decide.


Disability Benefits | Apply For A Child (Under Age 18)


To apply for a child...


You will need to complete an Application for Supplemental Security Income SSI AND a Child Disability Report. The report collects information about the child's disabling condition and how it affects his / her ability to function.


At this time , only the Child Disability Report can be completed online. Please contact us by phone or in person to schedule an appointment to complete the SSI application. We will help you in person or by phone.


Steps to Apply


REVIEW the Child Disability Starter Kit. This kit answers common questions about applying for Supplemental Security Income SSI benefits for children, and includes a worksheet that will help you gather the information you need. CONTACT Social Security right away to find out whether the income and resources of the parents and the child are within the allowed limits, and to start the SSI application process. FILL OUT the online Child Disability Report. At the end of the report , we will ask you to sign a form that gives the child's doctor permission to give us information about his / her disability. We need this information so that we can make a decision on the child's claim.


If you do not want to do this report online or you need help , you can call us toll - free at 1 - 800 - 772 - 1213. If you are deaf or hard - of - hearing , call our toll - free TTY number , 1 - 800 - 325 - 0778.


Representatives are available Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.


Social Security Direct Deposit


Already receiving benefits


If you already receive Social Security or SSI benefits and you have a bank account , you can sign up for Direct Deposit by : starting or changing Direct Deposit online Social Security benefits only , or contacting your bank, credit union or savings and loan association , or calling Social Security toll - free at 1 - 800 - 772 - 1213 TTY 1 - 800 - 325 - 0778, or


Consider the Direct Express debit card as another viable option.


The Direct Express card is a debit card you can use to access your benefits. And you don't need a bank account.


With the Direct Express card program , we deposit your federal benefit payment directly into your card account. Your monthly benefits will be available on your payment day on time, every time. You can use the card to make purchases, pay bills or get cash at thousands of locations.


It s quick and easy to sign up for the card. Call the toll - free Direct Express hotline at 1 - 800 - 333 - 1795. Also , Social Security can help you sign up.


If you don't have an account , you must open an account before you can sign up for Direct Deposit. You should shop around in your area to find an account that has the features you want at a price you can afford. When you decide on the account that is right for you , let the representative at the financial institution know that you are interested in signing up to receive your benefits by Direct Deposit.


Not currently receiving benefits


If you don t get Social Security or SSI benefits yet but are planning to apply , tell the Social Security representative when you apply for benefits that you want to sign up for Direct Deposit. If you already have an account , have your checkbook or a copy of your bank statement with you.


If you would like to learn more about Direct Express view Treasury's You Tube Video


If you would like to learn more about preventing identity theft visit Treasury's website at


Manage Your Retirement Benefits


Successfully filing for retirement benefits isn t the end of your Social Security journey. We have resources to save you time on important retirement tasks and keep you in control of your Social Security account benefits through a free my Social Security account.


Sign Up For mySocial Security


A free my Social Security account makes it easy to manage your information.


Create An Account


Jump to a topic on this page :


Understand Your Benefits / Inform Us Of Changes / Use Our Resources And Services To Stay In Control / Keep Your Information Secure


Understand Your Benefits


Effectively managing your retirement benefits is an ongoing part of retired life. A solid foundation for this includes understanding what you re entitled to, staying up to date on program changes, and making sure we have your current information.


Know What You're Entitled To


Help ensure you get the retirement benefits you should by reviewing the basics like how we determine your benefit amount and who else in your family might be eligible. Visit our Learn About Retirement Benefits page to make sure you know the basics of retirement benefits.


Stay Up To Date


With SSA.gov , there are a few ways to stay in the know on the latest Social Security information : Subscribe to our Social Security Matters blog to hear from us on tips, tools, and updates on Social Security issues important to you. Check our annual Cost - of - Living Adjustments COLA updates and learn about any impact to your monthly benefit amount. Subscribe to our Email Digest for information to you on policy changes, agency news, and notifications on important events. Create your personal my Social Security account to receive important notices online through the Message Center. The Message Center is a secure, convenient portal where you can receive sensitive communications we don t send through email or text.


Explore The Benefits You May Be Due Benefits For Your Family


FAQs


What is a my Social Security online account and how do I get one? How do I sign up for Medicare?


Inform Us Of Changes


When change happens in your life , letting us know ensures your benefits and information is kept up to date. Remember to tell us whenever there s a change in your life circumstance that could affect your benefits.


Common changes to notify us of : Moving. Getting married or divorced. Changing your name. Adopting a child. No longer caring for a child who receives benefits. If you are a non - citizen and your status changes. Start getting a pension from work not covered by Social Security. Leave the United States for more than 30 days. Become unable to manage your funds. Are convicted of a criminal offense. The beneficiary dies.


If you already receive Social Security benefits , you can update much of your information online with your personal my Social Security account.


If you need to make a change that cannot be done through my Social Security , you can contact us for additional support.


How Social Security Can Help You When A Family Member Dies


How can I change my address? What should I do when someone dies?


Use Our Resources And Services To Stay In Control


There are many time - saving options available to you. Here are our most popular online services : Check your application status. Set up or change direct deposit. Get a proof of income letter. Get a Social Security 1099 SSA-1099 form. Request a replacement Social Security card. Opt out of certain mailed notices. Advanced Designation of Representative Payee.


We continue to expand the services available online. Visit our online services page to see a complete list, including the newest services to help you manage your information. You can also search our comprehensive FAQs section for help with specific retirement issues.


If you need help with managing your benefits and cannot find the answer or service above , visit our contact us page for other ways to get support.


Keep Your Information Secure


Identity theft affects millions of people each year and can cause serious financial and identity - related problems. Protect yourself by securing your personal information, taking the time to understand the threat of identity theft, and exercising caution.


Protect Yourself From Fraud


Social Security is diligently working at national, regional, and local levels to combat the fraud that undermines our mission to serve the American public.


There are steps you can take to help protect your personal information : Do not routinely carry your Social Security card. Never say your Social Security number aloud in public. Beware of phishing scams emails, internet links, texts, and phone calls to trick you into revealing personal information. Create a my Social Security account to help you keep track of your records. Visit If You Want Extra Security to learn about extra verification steps we can add to your account.


Report Suspicious Activity


If you receive a suspicious call from someone claiming to be from Social Security , hang up and then report details of the call to the Office of the Inspector General. You can do this by submitting a report online.


Protecting Personal Information Fraud Prevention And Reporting Legal Enforcement And Financial Penalties


What should I do if I get a call claiming there's a problem with my Social Security number or account? How do you protect my identity when I use a my Social Security account?


Learn About Retirement Benefits


We want you to know what Social Security can mean for you and your family s financial future. In this section , you can learn how Social Security works, who s eligible for retirement benefits, and what to consider before applying. Read on to understand how Social Security fits into your retirement plan.


Ready To Retire?


Start your application today


Apply Online For Retirement Benefits


How Retirement Benefits Work / Planning For Retirement / Deciding When To Start Retirement Benefits / What Else Affects Your Retirement Benefits


How Retirement Benefits Work


Social Security replaces a percentage of a worker s pre - retirement income based on their lifetime earnings. The portion of your pre - retirement wages that Social Security replaces is based on your highest 35 years of earnings and varies depending on how much you earn and when you choose to start benefits.


The Social Security system works like this : when you work, you pay taxes into Social Security. We use the tax money to pay benefits to : People who have already retired. People who are disabled. Survivors of workers who have died. Dependents of beneficiaries.


The money you pay in taxes isn t held in a personal account for you to use when you get benefits. We use your taxes to pay people who are getting benefits right now. Any unused money goes to a Social Security trust fund that pays monthly benefits to you and your family when you start receiving retirement benefits.


An Overview Of Retirement Benefits Your Retirement Benefit : How It s Figured Benefits For Your Family


What is the current maximum amount of taxable earnings for Social Security?


Planning For Retirement


Planning is the key to creating your best retirement. You ll need to plan and save for years to achieve your retirement goals. While many factors affect retirement planning , we want you to understand what Social Security can mean to you and your family s financial future.


Social Security Should Be Just One Part Of Your Retirement Plan


On average , retirement beneficiaries receive 40% of their pre - retirement income from Social Security. As you make your retirement plan , knowing the approximate amount you will receive in Social Security benefits can help you determine how much other retirement income you ll need to reach your goals.


Are You Eligible?


When you work and pay Social Security taxes , you earn credits toward Social Security benefits. The number of credits you need to get retirement benefits depends on when you were born. If you were born in 1929 or later , you need 40 credits usually, this is 10 years of work.


If you stop working before you have enough credits to qualify for benefits , the credits will remain on your Social Security record. If you return to work later , more credits may be added. We can t pay any retirement benefits until you have 40 credits. Our retirement planner has additional details on how Social Security Credits work.


Verify Your Earnings History


The amount of the Social Security benefits you or your family receives depends on the amount of earnings shown on your record. Regularly checking your Social Security earnings history can help ensure there are no surprises when it s time for you to start receiving benefits. You can find your earnings history on your annual Social Security Statement. Create a free my Social Security account to check your earnings history online. See how at Get Your Social Security Statement.


Estimate Your Benefits


Knowing what you will get every month in retirement benefits will help you plan for your retirement. The Retirement Calculator within my Social Security allows you to get personalized retirement benefits estimates based on your actual earnings. This makes it easy to see how changes in the date or age at which you begin receiving retirement benefits will affect your future income.


If you do not want to create a my Social Security account or are unable to set one up , we have other tools and resources to help you estimate your benefit amount. Visit the Social Security Calculators page for more online and downloadable calculator options.


Spruce Up Your Financial Plan With Social Security Income From Pensions, Annuities, Interest, And Dividends Your Earnings Can Really Pay Off Monitoring Benefit Eligibility Screening Tool BEST


Deciding When To Start Retirement Benefits


Choosing when to start receiving retirement benefits is a personal decision. If you choose to retire begin receiving benefits when you reach your full retirement age , you ll receive your full benefit amount. We will reduce your benefit amount if you retire start benefits before reaching full retirement age.


To make an informed choice , consider the following factors as you think about when to start your Social Security benefits.


What Age Should You Start To Receive Benefits?


The age you begin collecting your retirement benefit affects how much you will receive. There are three important things to know about age when thinking about when to start your benefits.


Full Retirement Age


Full retirement age is the age when you will be able to collect your full retirement benefit amount. The full retirement age is 66 if you were born from 1943 to 1954. The full retirement age increases gradually if you were born from 1955 to 1960, until it reaches 67. For anyone born 1960 or later , full retirement benefits are payable at age 67. You can find your full retirement age by birth year in the full retirement age chart.


Early Retirement Age


You can get Social Security retirement benefits as early as age 62. However , your benefit is reduced if you start receiving benefits before your full retirement age. Understand how claiming retirement benefits early will affect your benefit amount.


Delayed Retirement Age


When you delay collecting benefits beyond your full retirement age , the amount of your retirement benefit will continue to increase up until age 70. There is no incentive to delay claiming after age 70.


When To Start Receiving Retirement Benefits Your Options: Working, Applying For Retirement, Or Both? Social Security Credits


What is the maximum Social Security retirement benefit payable? When can I get Social Security retirement benefits?


What Else Affects Your Retirement Benefits


Everyone s retirement is unique. Beyond deciding when to begin receiving retirement benefits , other factors that can affect your benefits include whether you continue to work, what type of job you had, and if you have a pension from certain jobs.


Continuing To Work


You can choose to keep working beyond your full retirement age. If you do , you can increase your future Social Security benefits. Each extra year you work adds another year of earnings to your Social Security record. Higher lifetime earnings can mean higher benefits when you choose to receive benefits.


Specific Types Of Earnings


While Social Security earnings are calculated the same way for most American workers , there are some types of earnings that have additional rules.


Earning types with special rules include : Farm Work Federal Government Employment Household Employment Military Service Nonprofit Or Religious Organizations Railroad Earnings Self-Employment State And Local Government Employment Wages Work Outside The United States


Pensions And Other Factors


Pensions and taxes have the potential to impact your retirement benefit. Review the resources below on pensions and other factors you should consider : Windfall Elimination Provision WEP : If you have a pension from a job for which you didn t pay Social Security taxes, this policy may lower your retirement benefits. Government Pension Offset GPO : This policy affects benefits as a spouse, widow, or widower if you have a pension from a government job for which you didn t pay Social Security taxes. Income Taxes And Your Social Security Benefits : You might have to pay federal income taxes on your Social Security benefits in certain situations.


How The Rules Work For You Getting Benefits While Working Military Service And Social Security Work For A Foreign Government Inside The USA


Will you lower my Social Security benefits if I get a pension from work not covered by Social Security?


Medicare Premiums: Rules For Higher-Income Beneficiaries


The law requires an adjustment to your monthly Medicare Part B medical insurance and Medicare prescription drug coverage premiums. This affects less than five percent of people with Medicare. Most people don t pay higher premiums.


If You Have a Higher Income


If you have higher income , you ll pay an additional premium amount for Medicare Part B and Medicare prescription drug coverage. We call the additional amount the income - related monthly adjustment amount. Here s how it works :


Part B helps pay for your doctors services and outpatient care. It also covers other medical services, such as physical and occupational therapy, and some home health care. For most beneficiaries , the government pays a substantial portion about 75 percent of the Part B premium , and the beneficiary pays the remaining 25 percent.


If we determine you re a higher - income beneficiary , you ll pay a larger percentage of the total cost of Part B based on the income you normally report to the Internal Revenue Service IRS. You ll pay monthly Part B premiums equal to 35 , 50 , 65 , 80, or 85 percent of the total cost, depending on what you report to the IRS.


Medicare prescription drug coverage helps pay for your prescription drugs. For most beneficiaries , the government pays a major portion of the total costs for this coverage , and the beneficiary pays the rest. Prescription drug plan costs vary depending on the plan, and whether you get the Extra Help, also known as the subsidy, with your portion of the Medicare prescription drug coverage costs.


If you re a higher - income beneficiary with Medicare prescription drug coverage , you ll pay monthly premiums plus an additional amount, which is based on what you report to the IRS. Because individual plan premiums vary , the law specifies that the amount is determined using a base premium. We tie the additional amount you pay to the base beneficiary premium, not your own premium amount. If you re a higher - income beneficiary , we deduct this amount from your monthly Social Security payments regardless of how you usually pay your monthly prescription plan premiums. If the amount is greater than your monthly payment from Social Security, or you don t get monthly payments , you ll get a separate bill from another federal agency, such as the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services or the Railroad Retirement Board.


How Social Security Determines You Have a Higher Premium


Social Security uses the most recent federal tax return the IRS provides to us. If you must pay higher premiums , we use a sliding scale to calculate the adjustments, based on your modified adjusted gross income MAGI. Your MAGI is your total adjusted gross income and tax - exempt interest income.


If you file your taxes as married, filing jointly and your MAGI is greater than $170,000 , you ll pay higher premiums for your Part B and Medicare prescription drug coverage. If you file your taxes using a different status, and your MAGI is greater than $85,000 , you ll pay higher premiums. See the chart below, Modified Adjusted Gross Income MAGI, for an idea of what you can expect to pay.


If you must pay higher premiums , we ll send you a letter with your premium amount and the reason for our determination. If you have both Medicare Part B and Medicare prescription drug coverage , you ll pay higher premiums for each. If you have only one Medicare Part B or Medicare prescription drug coverage you ll pay an income - related monthly adjustment amount only on the benefit you have. If you decide to enroll in the other program later in the same year, and you already are paying an income - related monthly adjustment amount , we ll apply an adjustment automatically to the other program when you enroll. In this case , we won t send you another letter explaining how we made this determination.


Remember , if your income isn t greater than the limits described above , this law does not apply to you.


Your Tax Return


To determine your 2020 income - related monthly adjustment amounts , we use your most recent federal tax return the IRS provides to us. Generally , this information is from a tax return filed in 2019 for tax year 2018. Sometimes , the IRS only provides information from a return filed in 2018 for tax year 2017. If we use the 2017 tax year data , and you filed a return for tax year 2018 or did not need to file a tax return for tax year 2018 , call us or visit any local Social Security office. We ll update our records.


If you amended your tax return , we count and it changes the income to determine the income - related monthly adjustment amounts your MAGI , let us know. Social Security needs to see a copy of the amended tax return you filed and your acknowledgment receipt from IRS. We ll update our records with the information you provide, and correct or remove your income - related monthly adjustment amounts, as appropriate.


If Your Income Has Gone Down