Research and experience show grandparents can have a positive impact on their grandchildren. Have you ever wished you could return the favor? Here are 6 ways you can make a difference in the lives of your grandparents and other older relatives.

1. Use your computer skills to help them create a personal my Social Security account to manage their benefits. With an account they can:

• Get their annual Cost-of Living Adjustment (COLA) notice or benefit verification.
• Update their address, phone number, and direct deposit.
• Get a replacement SSA-1099 for tax purposes, and more.

If they created a personal my Social Security account before September 18, 2021, you can help them transition to Login.gov or ID.me. Learn more by reading our blog.

2. Check their eligibility for Social Security benefits by answering a few questions here. They may already receive retirement benefits but may not be aware of:

• Spouse benefits – even if they’re separated from their spouse.
• Surviving spouse benefits as early as age 60, or 50 if they’re disabled – even if they are remarried.
• Benefits for divorced spouses and surviving divorced spouses if they were married at least 10 years.
• Benefits for same-sex couples.

You can help them find benefits using our convenient Benefit Eligibility Screening Tool (BEST).

3. Research other programs your loved ones may qualify for and help them apply:

• Extra Help with Medicare prescription costs helps people with limited resources and income pay for Medicare Part D premiums, deductibles, and co-payments. They can save an estimated $5,300 a year. You’ll find the online application here.
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is for people 65 and older, and people with disabilities of any age, who have limited income and resources. For information about eligibility requirements and to start the application process, visit our SSI page.

4. Identify resources to answer Medicare questions about coverage, billing, getting a replacement card, choosing a health plan, and more. Visit medicare.gov, call 1-800-MEDICARE, or contact the local State Health Insurance Assistance Program. SHIPs are available in every state to provide free Medicare education and counseling.
5. Educate yourself about scams so you can help protect your loved ones. We continue to receive complaints about scammers impersonating Social Security employees via phone calls, texts, emails, social media, and U.S. mail. Scammers claim they can resolve Social Security-related problems in exchange for gift cards, prepaid debit cards, money or wire transfers, or cash. Learn more by reading our blog.
6. Apply to become their representative payee if they need help managing their benefits. Or talk to them about the option to advance designate a representative payee in case they need help in the future. Learn more about our Representative Payee Program here.

We hope you’ll take the time this Grandparents Day to consider these 6 important ways to make a positive difference in the lives of your grandparents and other older relatives.

Please share this information with your friends and family – and post it on social media.

Tags: General Information