Social Security benefits are a form of social insurance that provides financial support to eligible individuals and families. Benefits are funded through taxes as administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA). These benefits are primarily available to those who are retired, disabled, or who have lost a family member that worked and paid their Social Security taxes.
Social Security benefits are available to the following:
- Retirees: Individuals who have worked and paid Social Security taxes for at least 10 years (40 credits). Full retirement age varies between 66 to 67, depending on birth year.
- Disability Beneficiaries: Workers of any age who have become disabled and are no longer capable of working.
- Survivors: Family members of deceased Social Security workers may qualify for survivor benefits
- Dependents: Spouses or children younger than 18 of retired and/or disabled workers may qualify.
To qualify for disability benefits, your medication condition must meet the Social Security Administration’s definition of disability…
“To meet our definition of disability, you must not be able to engage in any substantial gainful activity (SGA) because of a medically determinable physical or mental disability(ies) that is either expected to result in death and has lasted or is expected to last for a continuous period of at least 12 months”
The following documentation will be required when applying:
- Proof of Identity: Driver’s license, passport, or birth certificate
- Social Security Number (SSN) for yourself and/or dependents
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful alien status if born outside of the U.S.
- W-2 forms or self-employment tax returns from the previous year
- Banking information for direct deposit (including account routing number and account number)
- Medical records and doctor reports
- Proof of military service (if applicable)
- Marriage certificate or divorce decree (if applying as a spouse or ex-spouse)