What are the main types of Social Security benefits?

"Social Security benefits are a financial lifeline for many Americans, providing retirement income, disability benefits, and survivor benefits."

What are the main types of Social Security benefits?

Social Security benefits are a financial lifeline for many Americans, providing retirement income, disability benefits, and survivor benefits. Here is a guide to the main types of Social Security benefits:

Retirement benefits

Retirement benefits are the most common type of Social Security benefit. To be eligible for retirement benefits, you must have worked and paid Social Security taxes for a certain number of quarters. You can start receiving retirement benefits at age 62, but your benefits will be reduced if you start receiving them before your full retirement age (FRA). Your FRA is 66 or 67, depending on your year of birth.

Disability benefits

Disability benefits are available to people who are unable to work due to a disability that is expected to last at least one year or result in death. To be eligible for disability benefits, you must have worked and paid Social Security taxes for a certain number of quarters. You can apply for disability benefits at any age.

Survivor benefits

Survivor benefits are available to widows, widowers, and children of deceased workers. To be eligible for survivor benefits, the deceased worker must have worked and paid Social Security taxes for a certain number of quarters.

Other types of Social Security benefits

In addition to retirement, disability, and survivor benefits, Social Security also offers a number of other benefits, including:

• Supplemental Security Income (SSI): SSI is a means-tested program that provides financial assistance to low-income individuals and couples with disabilities and to aged individuals who meet certain criteria.

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): SSDI is a program that provides monthly income benefits to people who have a disability that prevents them from working.

• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): SNAP is a program that provides food assistance to low-income individuals and families.

How to apply for Social Security benefits

There are a few different ways to apply for Social Security benefits:

• Online: You can apply for Social Security benefits online at the Social Security Administration (SSA) website.

• By phone: You can call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 to apply over the phone.

• In person: You can apply for Social Security benefits in person at your local SSA office.

Conclusion

Social Security benefits are a valuable resource for many Americans. If you are unsure which type of Social Security benefits you are eligible for, you can contact the SSA for more information.