You made the choice and now you are happily retired. You filed online for your Social Security benefits. They arrive each month in the correct amount exactly as expected. But, did you ever wonder if your Social Security check could increase?
Once you begin receiving benefits, there are three common ways benefit checks can increase: a cost of living adjustment (COLA); additional work; or an adjustment at full retirement age if you received reduced benefits and exceeded the earnings limit.
The COLA is the most commonly known increase for Social Security payments. We annually announce a COLA, and there’s usually an increase in the Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefit amount people receive each month. By law, federal benefit rates increase when the cost of living rises, as measured by the Department of Labor’s Consumer Price Index (CPI-W). More than 66 million Americans saw a 2.0 percent increase in their Social Security and SSI benefits in 2018. For more information on the 2018 COLA, visit our website.
Social Security uses your highest thirty-five years of earnings to figure your benefit amount when you sign up for benefits. If you work after you begin receiving benefits, your additional earnings may increase your payment. If you had fewer than 35 years of earnings when we figured your benefit, you will replace a zero earnings year with new earnings. If you had 35 years or more, we will check to see if your new year of earnings is higher than the lowest of the 35 years (after considering indexing). We check additional earnings each year you work while receiving Social Security. If an increase is due, we send a notice and pay a one-time check for the increase and your continuing payment will be higher.
Maybe you chose to receive reduced Social Security retirement benefits while continuing to work. You made the choice to take benefits early, but at a reduced rate. If you exceeded the allowable earnings limit and had some of your benefits withheld, we will adjust your benefit once you reach full retirement age. We will refigure your payment to credit you for any months you did not receive payments. Your monthly benefit will increase based on the crediting months you receive. You can find additional information about working and your benefit by reading What You Need to Know When You Get Retirement or Survivors Benefits.
Retirement just got more interesting since you learned about potential increases to monthly payments. Social Security has been securing your today and tomorrow for more than 80 years with information and tools to help you achieve a successful retirement.
can I retire at 48 on soc scoidy
No!
Hello Keith, the earliest age you can apply for reduced retirement benefits is 62. Please visit our Retirement Planner for more important information. Also, you can create a my Social Security account to review your earnings record and get an estimate of your future benefits. Thanks!
Greetings,
I am Barrister John Ryan Williams Personal attorney to your late Relative who passed away in a car accident here in my country alongside with his family members in 4th April 2006 He left behind an investment bond of Seven Million Five Hundred Thousand United State Dollars $7,500,000.00(USD) with a bank(Bsic Bank, Lome-Togo) here in my country, before his death. I have in my possession legal documents that could give you the legal rights for the claim. Write me your sincere thoughts about this mail so That we can get started with the process.
Please Contact me through my private E-mail: johnryanwilliams1972@gmail.com
Best Regard
Mr. John Ryan Williams.
Sorry there are still two vacant trustee positions that need to be filled. How could a retiree volunteer ?
Run up and down the street yelling, “pick me, pick me!”
Please see Social Security/Medicare Trustees for information on this topic. Thanks!
Greetings,
I am Barrister John Ryan Williams Personal attorney to your late Relative who passed away in a car accident here in my country alongside with his family members in 4th April 2006 He left behind an investment bond of Seven Million Five Hundred Thousand United State Dollars $7,500,000.00(USD) with a bank(Bsic Bank, Lome-Togo) here in my country, before his death. I have in my possession legal documents that could give you the legal rights for the claim. Write me your sincere thoughts about this mail so That we can get started with the process.
Please Contact me through my private E-mail: johnryanwilliams1972@gmail.com
Best Regard
Mr. John Ryan Williams.
Can I receive added social security benefits from my husbands social security?
THANK YOU FOR THIS INFORMATION. IT REALLY HELPS. I AM ABOUT TO APPLY FOR RETIREMENT AND I HAVE ONLY ONE QUESTION. IF I APPLY IN JULY AND MY FIRST CHECK IS NOT UNTIL OCTOBER WILL IT REFLECT THE $AMOUNT DUE FROM JULY OR OCTOBER?
July and October’s amount is the same thing.
Hello William, if you apply in July but your first month of eligibility is October or if you selected the month of October as your first month of entitlement, your benefit amount will reflect the amount for the month of October. Please keep in mind that benefits are paid the month after they are due. So, for instance, if you want your benefits to begin with the month of October, you will receive your first benefit payment in November. Please visit our Social Security Retirement Planner for more information.
Thanks!
I had NO earned income in 2016. Also, you have STILL not paid me my March 2018 benefits of $897. Please wire it to my Chase Ucard IMMEDIATELY! Your failure to pay it yet has put me into a severe hardship, crisis, emergency, which is a crime!! Richard L. Harrison,
Personal requests on a public blog are ignored and inappropiate.
I was not working when I started Social Security at 62 because I had had to care for my dying mother since my age of 59. After a few years, I went back to work again at age 68 and continued until I was 89. Was any of that extra work gaining me any larger check from Social Security?
Yep!
Hello Patricia. When you apply for retirement benefits, we base your benefit payment on your highest 35 years of earnings and your age when you start receiving benefits.
Each year, we review the records for all working Social Security recipients to see if additional earnings may increase monthly benefits. If your earnings for the prior year are higher than any of the years that were used to compute your retirement benefit, then we recalculate your benefit amount. If an increase is due, a new monthly benefit amount is established on your record automatically. We hope this information helps!
What about social security disability? Does it get a increase?
Yep!
Hi Loretta. Generally, disability benefits (SSDI) are established at the highest rate possible based on your earnings prior to you becoming disabled. Social Security disability benefits automatically change to retirement benefits when disability beneficiaries attain their full retirement age. Benefits are not interrupted with this transition and the benefit amount will generally remains the same. Thanks!
Yes, the same COLA applies to SSDI as retirement benefits.
My husband took social security benefits at age 62 and then decided to go back to work at 64 and worked for 6 1/2 years, full time. can he get increased benefits for working that long?
Yep, he’s been getting more but he decided not to tell you and keep the difference for beer money.
Thank you for your question, Cecily. When a person applies for retirement benefits, we base their benefit payment on the highest 35 years of their earnings and their age when they start receiving benefits. Each year, we review the records for all working Social Security recipients to see if additional earnings may increase their monthly benefits. If your earnings for the prior year are higher than any of the years that were used to compute your retirement benefit, then we recalculate your benefit amount. If an increase is due, a new monthly benefit amount is established on your record automatically.
Can you explain this a little differently as I do not understand it as it is written:
…”we base their benefit payment on the highest 35 years of their earnings and their age when they start receiving benefits.”
What does the highest 35 years mean? Is it the year you made the most during a 35 year period? If so, how can I find my life long earnings history?
I appreciate the information you provide and will very much appreciate any thing that will help me understand this better.
Hi Sue: A Social Security retirement benefit is calculated by using your highest 35 years of earnings. If you do not have 35 years of earnings, we will use all of the earnings on your record and factor in an annual total of $0.00 earnings for each of the remaining years. See Your Retirement Benefit: How It Is Figured for more details.
Your Social Security Statement shows a record of your earnings over your lifetime. You can create a my Social Security account to access your statement online. See our Frequently Asked Questions web page for more.
COLA? Seriously? That’s YOUR explanation of how the benefit will increase? This last adjustment doesn’t even buy milk. How much do YOU earn to post drivel like this? I’ll take THAT money, thanks.
The cost-of-living is determined by rules laid out by the people you elect to Congress. They tell the Department of Labor what indices to use to measure inflation. Getting mad at the wrong people may feel momentarily fulfilling but it will never fix the problem. You need to pester your Congressman and Senators to fix this. And BTW, one party (currently in power) is looking to impose another way of figuring the COLA that will pay you (over time) a lot less. So when you get mad think about what you are actually voting for. You may get what you deserve for not paying attention to what politicians really stand for. Don’t throw your vote away on people who will not fix anything or make it worse!
Finally, an answer that makes sense.
I think COLA is figured wrong, the use of percent is an uneven amount, COLA’s should be a dollar amount, the same amount to all, convert percent to an average dollar amount and all get the same dollar amount as a COLA.
I’ll take the percentage as most sensible people would and as for you, $2.00 even sounds about right.
Buenos días si tengo el crédito autorizado cómo le ago para disponer del dinero ATT. Laudino López Bonilla
For information in Spanish, please visit us at http://www.segurosocial.gov or http://www.facebook.com/segurosocial.
For Social Security information in other languages, please visit us at http://www.socialsecurity.gov/multilanguage. Thanks!
I live in Charlottesville. Virginia and would like to have
an appointment to talk to someone about my social
security account.
Please reply
call the local office 1-866-613-3959 to set up an appointment
Hi Kathryn. Some of our local offices do offer walk-in appointments; however, these appointments are on a first come, first serve basis. Remember that most Social Security services do not require a visit to a local office. Many services, including applying for retirement, disability or Medicare benefits are conveniently available at our website.
We encourage our customers to create a my Social Security account. With a personal my Social Security account, you can review your earnings record and get estimates of your future benefits.
Also, you can call our toll free number at 1-800-772-1213 and speak to a Social Security representative between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. Generally, you will have a shorter wait time if you call later during the day or later in the week. We hope this information helps!
Who saw any increase, they took out more for Medicare, so how are retirees to live on no increases to help off set higher prices; groceries, insurance, prescriptions, it’s terrible how seniors get treated, you work 40 years and still the government takes, and takes, and we get nothing in return for all the years we paid into the system!
And yet most people get back much more than they pay in.
Further proof that it is in fact an entitlement program.
And some people wait and then die and never get anything. I guess that’s called SOL
It’s called saving and investing while you work to make up the shortfall.
I have not seen an actual increase in my check since 2015…I agree with you…
Patricia, You said it all right there. I agree with you 100%. It seems like Medicare goes up every year & our S.S. checks keep going down.
I have worked 14 years after starting my Social Security. Do you automatically check this or do I have to request it?
They automatically checked it for my husband. He received a higher payment only the first 2 years after retirement since his future earnings were not more than his 35 highest year earnings.
Yes.
I have worked ever since I started my Social Security monthly pay. I thought that my current salary would add up to me drawing more but nothing has changed. If my current earnings don’t help me, whom do they help?
Your brother-in-law, Bubba.
I would like information on how to increase withdrawal of fed and state taxes from our paychecks. Thank you!
Hello everyone. My name is Melissa. I am 51 years old. I had a massive stroke back in May 1993. I started receiving SSI payments 2 years later. And ive also had 3 TIA and have multiple health conditions. Like high blood pressure, thyroid disease, emphysema, copd, high cholesterol, DDD, 3 pinched nerves in my back, scoliosis, authorities of the spine, 2 buldging discs, sciatic nerve disorder, nerve disorder, sway back, narrowing of the spine, anxiety and panic disorder, MVP, etc. Anyway, my question is for u. Can I qualify for SSDI along with receiving my SSI benefits? Thank u for listening. Some people have told me I could. And some have told me no I couldn’t. I’m really not sure myself. BC I haven’t work or can work with all my health issues. And my SSI is just not quite enough to cover my bills, medicine copays, and drs. Please let me know by email. ( hurdmelissa50@gmail.com) thank u and GOD BLESS U All
I understand you cannot draw both and for SSI you have to had worked your last 10 years under SS. But good question, I hope they get back to you.
When you filed for SSI, your eligibility for Social Security disability payments would have automatically been checked. Because you were under age 31 when you had your stroke, less work than 5 out of 10 years woukd have been required. By the way, people can receive both SSA and SSI disability payments if their SSA benefit amount is small and their income and resources are low.
They have to by law pay you your social security before they consider SSI because the regular social security might be too high for you to get SSI. Don’t post your private Email address. If you are on SSI you are entitled to MEDICAID and you do not have to pay for any necessary medication. Contact your welfare office.
Hello Melissa, we pay disability via two programs: the Social Security Disability Insurance program, for people who have worked and paid Social Security taxes long enough to be eligible, and the Supplemental Security Income program, which pays benefits based on financial need.
When it comes to qualifying for disability benefits under the Social Security Disability Income or SSDI program, individuals must have worked long enough–and recently enough–under Social Security to qualify for disability benefits. Generally, you need 40 credits, 20 of which you have to earn within the last 10 years before you become disabled.
If you have specific questions about your situation, please call our toll free number at 1-800-772-1213, Monday through Friday, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. and ask one of our representatives to assist you. Thanks!
Is it correct that SSI means that a person had not worked before becoming disabled, and SSDI means they did work before the disability?
I retired at 62 because of my situation and was very disappointed with my benefits. I should have already have looked into it sooner but…
I recently became a payee for someone 32 years old receiving disability that never worked and was shocked they get almost twice as much as I do. I think survivors benefits are included but they didn’t earn as much as I did. Anyway, thank you for your tme and all you do.
My Social Security check come to my bank monthly.
I have a new bank account that I want to have my check sent to instead of the current one.
How shall I go about this?
I originally filed at full maturity (67) and my yearly gross has averaged $80-90 K yet my payments are essentially the same as when I originally filed.
I am 75 and still working but my check hasn’t increased except for a COLA.
Is this within normal limits?
Thank you for your response.
https://faq.ssa.gov/en-us/Topic/article/KA-02435
Set up a mySSA account and you can make the change online
Hello Ronald, you can use your personal my Social Security account to change your direct deposit information on your benefit record.
Also, When you apply for retirement benefits, we base your benefit payment on your highest 35 years of earnings and your age when you start receiving benefits. Each year, we review the records for all working Social Security recipients to see if additional earnings may increase monthly benefits. If your earnings for the prior year are higher than any of the years that were used to compute your retirement benefit, then we recalculate your benefit amount. If an increase is due, a new monthly benefit amount is established on your record automatically.
For specific questions on your situation, you can call our toll free number at 1-800-772-1213 and speak to one of our agents. Representatives are available Monday through Friday, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Thanks!
This article says, “Social Security uses your highest thirty-five years of earnings to figure your benefit.”
I heard that this does not include overtime pay, just a plain 40 hour work week. Is that true?
All FICA earnings count, including OT
I applied for Medicare when I turned 65. I deferred SS until my full retirement age, which is 66. I am now 66 and want to begin receiving social security. How do I begin that process.
call 1-800-772-1213
You can apply for benefits on the Social Security website.
Hello James. Our system is set up to take applications three months in advance. You can apply for your benefits online at any time now. Remember that benefits are paid the month after they are due. So, for instance, if you want your benefits to begin with the month of June, you will receive your first benefit payment in July. Please visit our Social Security Retirement Planner for more information. Thanks!
I kept working and paying into SS – the more I worked the higher my Medicare premium rose. $130 to $200 – not right. I’ve worked hard, paid taxes on 85% of SS income for years, paid fed and state tax, real estate taxes; I barely use my Medicare – provider is terrible.
Change providers.
I would like to know why my Retirement social security payment comes on sporadic dates instead of a date every month. Why would it come every 3d Wednesday of the month instead of like the 15th of every month. This scews the month up like crazy since I depend on it to pay bills. I have been struggling with this since I retired. Nobody else I know receives their payments like that.
Request that it come on the first of the month.
Since you still get a check every month, the funds are available to pay bills every month. Think of it as money arriving a week BEFORE you need it, not three weeks later.
Hello Karen. Spreading payments or “payment cycling” as we call it, was created in May 1997, to change the mass mailing of Social Security checks and payments to our beneficiaries –which used to take place on every 3rd day of the month-.
When all Social Security beneficiaries were paid on the 3rd of each month, it made the days immediately following “check day” the busiest in SSA field offices and telephone service centers. Now, under “payment cycling” beneficiaries receive their payments on the 2nd, 3rd, or 4th Wednesday of the month. Your payment date is established, based on the date of birth of the person on whose record you collect benefits.
This change has significantly allow our representatives to attend to our daily demands, and try to provide our public with better service.
We thank you for your feedback and appreciate your understanding!
I noticed that immediately! Sometimes we have five weeks and other times its four weeks and it makes it very difficult when I have to wait five weeks! But it ends up the same even when its on the same date every month – four or five weeks.
Where can I check to see what my income was for each of the past 35 years?
Open your social security on line account. You can see all of your information there.
Hello Eugene, you can get your personal Social Security Statement online by using your my Social Security account. Thanks!
Took my SS at 66 and still work and pay into the system.
My question is will my benefits increase and when?
Yes.
Your benefits will increase only if your earnings are higher than the years used in the original calculation of benefits. Ray Hernandez has explained that numerous times.
Hello Edwin, when you apply for retirement benefits, we base your benefit payment on your highest 35 years of earnings and your age when you start receiving benefits.
Each year, we review the records for all working Social Security recipients to see if additional earnings may increase monthly benefits. If your earnings for the prior year are higher than any of the years that were used to compute your retirement benefit, then we recalculate your benefit amount. If an increase is due, a new monthly benefit amount is established on your record automatically.
I would like to see the “windfall” provision removed. OR, pay the amount removed by the “windfall” and tax it.
This will take a change in the law.
I’m took my benefits early. How do i apply for full retirement benefits?
You are out of luck!!
You opted not to received full benefits when you chose early benefits. By around age 85, it evens out – you will have received the same amount of money, just gotten it in smaller amounts over a longer period.
Hi Marvin. If a person begins to receive benefits at age 62 or prior to their full retirement age, their benefits are reduced. The reduction factors are permanently applied to all of the benefits the person may qualify for. We hope this provides clarity, thanks!
Can you provide me with information concerning a Restricted Application and File and Suspend in applying for social security benefits
Certainly, contact SS , not a public blog site.
The social security office figures out the payment according to the last 35 years of earnings. If women stay home and take care of the family until they are grown and start to work at 36 years old how can they make up for the years lost. this is not fair to the women who take care of the family and can’t earn social security for 35 years.
Life’s not fair, write your congressman and ask him to sponsor legislation changing the law.
Can I get an independent divorced benefit at 62 and continue working without having to use my retirement benefit?
At the time I retired at age 63 and a half I has worked 46 years,.. am I entitled to a higher payment since I exceeded the 35 year period?
SS takes your “HIGHEST” 35 year earning no matter how many years you worked.
No.
We received a 2.0 % increase from Cola and a 3.0% increase for our Insurance Cost. Everything else increased, Bread, Butter, Milk, Candy, Meds. I just don’t understand. I paid Medicare all my working life and I am still paying into Medicare from my SS check and I also have a part time job that takes out Medicare. Yet I pay a $20.00 co-pay for every Dr. Visit and more for Medical Procedures. Just venting to the truth.
One cost you forgot to figure for, your health costs. Do you think that there was a zero percent gain in doctor bills, hospital bills, prescription drug costs? If these costs go up each year, wouldn’t it make sense that your premium should increase as well?
So, I worked 46 years when I retired at age 63 and a half, does it means I should be getting more money than what I was assessed at time of retirement?
only the highest 35 inflation-adjusted years count
Hi if you can do this for people then why can’t your dept. make it right for my husband, my husband had worked 38 years as a electrictran he was told by his boss that he was at the age he could file for his ss and so he did and was still working ok now 1 year later he is on his way to work gets into a 3 car crash and is airlifted to KMC trauma center were there was 2 teams put together to see over him. he was 67 at the time and had plenty of CREDITS but was told know when we looked into SSRD (BULL CRAP) is there any one out there that is on the up &up because i have dealing with this for over 5 years I let it go and then get mad and call again one lie told to me after another and yes i am talking about both my local offices to the 1/800 number people will tell you any thing and there is nothing you can do. my husband’s wreck was JUNE,30,2011 thank god he had taken out extra LTD though his employer which only lasted intill 2014 then we were left screwed.
And the part that really bothers me is they know SSA that they beat him out of his hard earned money and I would like to know why, why know one that has the power to help us has, and who do these people in these offices think they are, the money is not coming from there wallets so whats the problem I mean my husband honestly deserves to be receiving SSRD, I would be more then thankful if any one that reads this could help us. trying to resolve this for to many years there was know reason for this to be in question. also I would like this documented once again I am reaching for some one any one who might still care that has the power to care, We were done so wrong for so long even as I am writing this the date being JUNE 21,2018
My understanding is that you can’t collect both…..only the one with highest benefit.
Once you reach full retirement age, you no longer get disability. You wasted a lot of time typing up his life story.
To Cynthia I have no Idea what state you live in but I am in Tampa florida You should have a person there that likes to run people over when ever they can.this person will work for ABC NEWS. We have one here and she is grate call ABC and see what happens
I have worked a part time job with NAPA delivering auto parts in Troy Missouri the past 12 years—-Every check has social security and medicare taken out but my about $750.00 each year. Should I get that back or should I get additional amount on my monthly social security check? Please reply
Read the story about the high 35 years for crying out loud.
Thank you for this information. Since I am struggling right now and still working at age 65, I think I will make an appt. with SS about early retirement.
This is great for the Retirees thanks to you all
Cannot save an accident took all my retirement money. My car carreeer even children.. I’ve spent years just trying to receive DME I needed to function. I get step programs try this need prier autherisation won’t pay denied till now I’m allergic to so many drugs poured into iv at hospitals and I’m certain if I’d been given the best I would have returned to work. Couldn’t live on SsI alone eat proper and I needed oxygen and a moerized chair because scar tissue and misfiring nerves.
Big mess. I was treated like a crimminsl until I found an agency CIL called Abil.
I was cohersed into taking retirement early and now I receive 1/3 of what I would have been given
Look hard, there might be some truths in what you’ve said.
I would like to know when will my social security benefits will go up ? my reason for asking this question is because this month I ,had a birthday and turned 70 years old . surely look forward to hearing back concerning this matter soon as possible
Happy BD 2 U, your SS is not going up until next January when everyone gets a COLA.
Hello Herman. Generally, if you continue to work while receiving retirement benefits, your monthly benefit amount could increase. Each year, we review the records for all working Social Security recipients to see if additional earnings may increase monthly benefits.
The other way your monthly benefit amount could increase is based on the Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA), which is announced each year in October. We hope this information helps.
What do you do if you can not pay the amounts some creditors want you to pay. Can they garnish your Social Security? We are trying to live on our Social Security so we can both write. It is the way of working for us that allows us to work hard for four hours then enjoy the rest of the day without high stress. I enjoyed my high stress job as did my husband, but we both worked for 42 years and we are worn out. Will we really be able to live or will our creditors tears us apart?
File bankruptcy!
You are supposed to save for retirement while you are working. SS is a supplemental source of income.
Cam I get a Print Copy of this information?
Yep, hit your ctrl and p keys.
If you are not able to work after you turn 62 so you apply for SS and start receiving it and then your spouse passes away without getting to SS age because you are older then him but his SS is way higher can you then start to collect his?
Maybe, ask a SS rep.
If you apply for widow benefits on your husband’s record, you will get whichever benefit is higher, which is often the benefit based on the husband’s work history.
Maria A Ancira.
I am currently working at IRS.
It just came in my mind that i can work with Social Securit Administration, but i do not see where can i apply for a job.
I am fluent in Spanish; i know i could be a good asset for Social Security Administration offices. I also have my resume at http://www.usajobs.gov
Thanks,
Maria
The IRS has a bad reputation for their illegal activity concerning conservative groups, maybe the SSA will not find you a suitable candidate. Stay where you are and keep flying under the radar. Just sayin’.
If I retire at 65 instead 66 Will there be a big difference.presently I am a federal employee with about 34years I am a GS 11 STEP 3 I THINK.
Yes, wait for Full Retirement Age, especially since you are so close to FRA.
Hi John, you may find our Early or Late Retirement Calculator and our Information for Government Employees web page helpful.
Please visit our Benefits Planner for Retirement for more important information. Thanks!
Your advice about my SSI is highly appreciated
Thank you
Does the new tax laws have any effect in my social security benefits?
Hello Gwendolyn, some people may have to pay federal income taxes on their Social Security benefits. This usually happens only if you have other substantial income.
Your question appears to be an income tax related question, and you will need to contact the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Their toll-free number is 1-800-829-1040. Thanks!
wOW!! We got a 2% increase in Social Security, and Medicare gets to increase your monthly payment and takes that 2% increase.
Thank you for explaining the ways of possibly increasing a retirement payment. As a retired Federal employee I volunteer at a VA medical clinic and try to keep myself informed of changes to benefits for myself, my family and all the Veterans I come into contact with. This article was clear and very informative.
Hope to see more topics clarified.
Thanks for your feedback, Marie! We value your opinion of us and look forward to many more years of serving you in the future.
Interestingly, for each COLA increase we have, we also have an increase in the amount deducted for Medicare Part B Premiums, which offsets the COLA increase. For example, in 2018 we had a 2.0% COLA increase, which increased my gross S.S. payment, but Medicare deductions from check went from $111.00 a month to $134.00 per month, which increased my deductions by $23.00 per month. In 2017, my total Medicare deductions were $1,332.00. In 2018, they will be $1,608.00. Do the math.
Interestingly, you were unaware of the laws regarding hold harmless provision, and cola/Medicare premium increases. Perhaps you should endeavor yourself to do a little research, as these laws have been on the books for at least 20 years.
Why do they make it so confusing so we have to keep asking questions? Our minds get confused enough just by aging! HA!! So I took early SS at 62..had breast cancer and then my Mother had a stroke so I was her caregiver. After she passed I went back to work. In 2016 I made more money than I ever made during my 47 years of working! Unfortunately, I didn’t realize I was to stop my SS payments. So now I am 66 yr old, no longer working and I lost my SS payments. So let this be a lesson..don’t take it early..no matter how desperate you are!..If you make over the allowed amount ,stop the payments during that time. Since I took SS early, but I made more money then ever, am I still eligible to have my payments increase (according to the article above) when they do start paying me again? (BTW they do start paying me again after I pay back the years worth of over-payments!) Thanks in advance Snarky, I am sure you will have some hysterical comment to make! 🙂
I understand that we are not required to take Medicare part B. Is this true?
True! Part B, C, and D, as well as Medicare supplemental policies, are all optional.
Thank you for your question, Char. Individuals already receiving Social Security benefits are automatically enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B at age 65 or when they become eligible. However, because you must pay a premium for Part B coverage, you do have the option of turning it down. Generally, a beneficiary may refuse Medicare Part B, during his or her Initial Enrollment Period, if that beneficiary or the spouse, actively works and has coverage under a group health plan based on that employment, then he or she doesn’t need Medicare part B until the work activity ends or that health care coverage is dropped.
In all situations, we always suggest that individuals speak to their personnel office, health benefits advisor, or health plan representative to see what’s best for them, and to prevent any penalties or delayed enrollment in the future.
To learn more about the Medicare enrollment periods visit http://www.Medicare.gov.
For specific questions about your case, call 1-800-772-1213, M-F between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. and ask a representative to assist you, or you can contact your local office directly. We hope this helps!
If you already draw ssi but have recently become disabled can you reapply and will that increase your monthly check? Asking for another person.
SSI is a needs based program that can pay benefits to disabled adults and children and to individuals age 65 or older with limited income and resources. Your SSI payments are based on your current income and resources. If you’re already receiving SSI benefits you do not need to re-apply. Thanks!
por favor pregunto si yo recibo 448 Dolares mensual y fuera del seguro 700 mas si puedo tener mas beneficios Gracias
For information in Spanish, please visit us at http://www.segurosocial.gov or http://www.facebook.com/segurosocial.
For Social Security information in other languages, please visit us at http://www.socialsecurity.gov/multilanguage. Thanks!
I appreciate the advice & tips you provide, but using Susie Orman is a bad choice. The woman is a fraud. Her credit cards were reviewed as being overpriced and laced with fees that took money from people who couldn’t afford it. Find someone else, like possibly Clark Howard.
I keep hearing that congress has taken a lot out of Social Security and plans to take more. Is this true? I heard 2034 will be the year SS goes broke.
See The 2018-Social Security Board of Trustees Report for information on this topic. Thanks!
I need a letter from the IRS that shows I did not have to pay taxes this last year, because I did not make enough money from my social security income, and I had no other income.
Hello Frank. You will need to contact the IRS. Their toll-free number is 1-800-829-1040. We hope this helps!
I need my IRS transcripts for this last tax date.
Then get them from the IRS!
I have taken ill this year. I am on short term disability with my company. I have not been able to work for six months. I will be 62 in two weeks and have worked 32 years. Can I apply for SSD now and generally how long will I have to wait to receive benefits.? Do I also apply for social security at the same time?
Hello Maesha. Social Security pays only for total disability. We pay disability benefits to people under their full retirement age who are unable to work because of a medical condition that is expected to last one year or more or end in death. No benefits are payable for partial disability or short-term disability.
If you think you are disabled under our rules, you can file for disability online.
Also, you can apply for reduced retirement benefits at age 62. We can pay your retirement benefits while we consider your application for disability.
See what you can do online, or call us at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., Monday through Friday for more information or to make an appointment. Generally, you will have a shorter wait time if you call later during the day or later in the week.
We hope this information helps!
I moved and want to know how to change the bank where my SS check is deposited. I can’t find the information anywhere. Can you help.
Hello Nancy, you can change your address and update your direct deposit information online by using your my Social Security account. Thanks!
I seriously do not comment on the internet about anything financial in my life…….also this is not my real name…..
Thank you for the information. I will be seeking a review and verification of my benefit.
I’m not clear on early retirement . I would like to know if I retire at 62 I will receive about $400 less a month than if I retired at 65 or 67 . I need to continue working in order to survive.
Will I get the $400 more a month once I reach full retirement age or will I continue with the lower monthly benefit from here forward…
I’m collecting social security full benefits. I’m at full retirement age but still have to continue to work, so therefore I’m still paying into social security. Will I see an increase in my benefits because I’m still paying into it?
Hello Patti. As long as you continue to work and receive benefits, we will check your record every year to see whether the additional earnings will increase your monthly benefit. If there is an increase, we will send you a letter telling you of your new benefit amount.
In addition, after you reach full retirement age, we will recalculate your benefit amount to give you credit for any months in which you did not receive a benefit because of your earnings. We will send you a letter telling you about any increase in your benefit amount. Thanks!
I have heard that after i reach 66 years old I can work full time and draw a check from Medicare each month without any penalties. How does that work? Also what about taxable income?
Great question Pamela, if you were born January 2, 1943, through January 1, 1955, then your full retirement age for retirement insurance benefits is 66. If you work and are full retirement age or older, the amount you make at work will not affect your Social Security benefits, no matter how much you earn. Your payments come from Social Security Administration, not Medicare.
Also, some people have to pay federal income taxes on their Social Security benefits. This usually happens only if you have other substantial income (such as wages, self-employment, interest, dividends and other taxable income that must be reported on your tax return) in addition to your benefits.
See Withholding Income Tax From Your Social Security Benefits for information on this topic. Thanks!
I chose to start getting social security at 62 but still work. Iam 69 this year and I don’t believe I am getting any of the money that was kept back from my checks due to working and drawing early social security. I am past full retirement age…did I not do something right?
your wages rhat you earn from your job has to be higher in 1 year than the 35highest yrs that ssa used to fiqure your benefit.If your wages ate higher they will recalculate it automacially. They check each year.
Thank you for the helpful information. Please keep me posted on any changes.
This post is very educative to people especially to me when I read it. Thank you so much. Keep on with the information.
Thanks for your feedback! Your thoughts are important to us and we’re pleased when feedback is positive. We try hard to provide the best possible service to our customers and your satisfaction is our reward.
I am 62. I have a 10 year old daughter. If I decide to sign up for social security. Will my daughter receive benefits also. According to my income chart on social security. I can get $834.00 will this increase with my daughter she is not disabled.
Hello Terry. When you start receiving Social Security retirement benefits, some members of your family may also qualify to receive benefits on your record.
Your child may receive a monthly payment of up to one-half of your full retirement benefit amount. These payments will not decrease your retirement benefit. In fact, the value of the benefits your child may receive, added to your own, may help you decide if taking your benefits sooner may be more advantageous.
Normally, benefits stop when children reach age 18 unless they are disabled. However, if the child is still a full-time student at a secondary (or elementary) school at age 18, benefits will continue until the child graduates or until two months after the child becomes age 19, whichever is first.
See our Benefits Planner: Benefits For Your Family for more information.
How do I make an appointment to sign up for medicare office located in Salt Lake City Utah ?
Google it.
Hello Joseph. Please call our toll free number at 1-800-772-1213. Representatives are available Monday through Friday, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Generally, you will have a shorter wait time if you call later during the day or later in the week.
Individuals within three months of age 65 or older and not ready to start their monthly cash benefits can use our online retirement application to sign up for Medicare ONLY and apply for their retirement benefits at a later date. Since you must pay a premium for Part B coverage, you have the option of turning it down. However, we suggest that individuals speak to their health benefits advisor, or health plan representative to see what’s best for them, and to prevent any penalties or delayed enrollment in the future.
To learn more about the Medicare enrollment periods visit http://www.Medicare.gov, and read our publication “Apply Online for Medicare – Even If You Are Not Ready to Retire“.
We hope this information helps!
Why was this month payment not my regular 601$
Hello Robert. Unfortunately, and because of security reasons we do not have access to personal records in this blog and cannot answer your question at this time. One of our representatives should be able to provide you with an explanation. Please call our toll free number at 1-800-772-1213 for assistance. Representatives are available Monday through Friday, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Generally, you will have a shorter wait time if you call later during the day or later in the week. Thanks.
How may I determine how much money I may earn, before I lose 1 dollar for every 2 dollars earned?
Hello Roger, you can use our earnings test calculator to see how your earnings could affect your benefit payments, or see “Getting Benefits While Working”.
Thanks!
I was told that after I retire from work and are getting my SS checks, that if i do some work I can make as much as I want. I this true?
Hello Mary, if you elect to receive benefits before you reach full retirement age, you should understand how continuing to work can affect your benefits. See “Getting Benefits While Working” for complete information on this topic. Thanks!
My full retirement age is 66. If my annual income is reduced due to going part time once I have reached full retirement age does this lower or adversly affect my monthly Social Security benefit (benefit based on highest 35 year period)? Also once you start receiving SS benefits do you continue to pay income tax, social security and medicare on those benefits?
Hello Daniel. When you apply for retirement benefits, we base your benefit payment on your highest 35 years of earnings and your age when you start receiving benefits. Higher lifetime earnings result in higher benefits. If there were some years you didn’t work or had low earnings, your benefit amount may be lower than if you had worked steadily.
Also, some people have to pay federal income taxes on their Social Security benefits. This usually happens only if you have other substantial income (such as wages, self-employment, interest, dividends and other taxable income that must be reported on your tax return) in addition to your benefits. For further income tax questions, you will need to contact the IRS. Their toll-free number is 1-800-829-1040.
We hope this information helps!
Social Security Payment how much can I make without affecting my Social Security Payment. I will be 70 on 11/22/2018 and or my taxes. I am retired but need more money for bills
Hello Joseph. At age 69, you’ve reached your full retirement age. If you work and are full retirement age or older, the amount you make at work will not affect your Social Security benefits, no matter how much you earn.
Hi, I began receiving disability (SSDI?) at age 50. I worked from age 15 until then. When I became eligible for Medicare, I was told that my income was below the amount that would cause it to be taken out of my check. When I received my first check after becoming eligible for Medicare, they did take it out of my check. I contacted S.S. who told me to contact Job+Fam. Serv. who in turn told me to contact S.S.. This went on for 8 mo. Then they stopped taking it out, but I was told I would receive reimbursement for 7mo. of the 8 that they incorrectly took it out. I never received that. Then The back and forth referring started again. I need dental work and could use it for that, but don’t know how to get it. Any information for this? Thanks+God bless
Hello Barbara. Unfortunately, but for security reasons, we do not have access to personal records in this blog. Please continue working with your local office. You can request to speak with the manager to see how we can help to expedite resolution of your situation.
If you are unable to visit the local office, you can call our toll free number at 1-800-772-1213, representatives are available Monday through Friday, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Generally, you will have a shorter wait time if you call later during the day or later in the week. Thanks!
At age 67 my husband retired mostly due to his health. At the time I had been on SSI for many health reasons since 2002. When we went to the office we was told what he would receive and that I no longer would get the SSI check but the check I would receive increased but my disability is not considered any longer. My main question is, if my husband dies or we divorce will my check change? Especially if he dies. We are having such a hard time making it. Due to illness and other major health issues we are barely to make it. As Iam sure so many others are in the same situation. I will wait for an answer.
Thank you for your question Linda. In the event that your husband dies, and if you already receive benefits as a spouse on your husband’s record, your benefit will automatically convert to survivors benefits after we receive the report of death.
If a person already receives retirement benefits on his or her own record, they can only apply for benefits as a widow or widower if the retirement benefit they receive is less than the benefits they would receive as a survivor.
We hope this information helps.
I am receiving social security. I also work for myself and pay into social security since i retired. Why hasn’t my benefits increased?
Hello Lorraine. Each year, we review the records for all working Social Security recipients to see if additional earnings may increase monthly benefits. If your earnings for the prior year are higher than any of the years that were used to compute your retirement benefit, we will recalculate your benefit amount. If an increase is due, a new monthly benefit amount is established on your record automatically.
You may contact us and request a review of your records. You can also call our toll-free number at 1-800-772-1213. Representatives are available Monday through Friday, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. You will generally have a shorter wait time if you call later in the week. Thanks!
I recently reported a vehicle that I purchased do I get money from my social security for that.
Why does my sign in not recognize me. I am trying to buy a car and I need a print out of my benefit amount
Hello Edward. If you are unable to create an account or encounter a problem with your my Social Security account, you may:
•Call us at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778), Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. At the voice prompt, say “helpdesk”; or
•Contact your local Social Security office. Thanks!
My step daughter Susan Coake is receiving SSD and is the owner of a medical business called Ergoizeit in California How is this possible?
I’m inquiring as to the recent SS Administration Announcement Affecting Benefits. It seems there is one word that I can use to increase my yearly benefit. How do I find out if I am entitled to the increase/
I plan on retiring on my 62th birthday this Nov 8th. I plan on working the rest of the year. Does the earning I will make in Dec count toward 17k+ or does the amount I worked prior to my bd count towards that 17k +
I have been getting threating calls from this phone number 214-613-9115 saying they are from Social Security office.
Hello Lillie. SSA employees occasionally contact citizens by telephone for customer-service purposes. An SSA employees may call you in limited situations, such as if you recently filed a claim or have other Social Security business that are pending.
If a person has questions about any communication—email, letter, text or phone call—that claims to be from SSA, please contact your local Social Security office, or call Social Security’s toll-free customer service number at 1-800-772-1213, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday, to verify its legitimacy (TTY number at 1-800-325-0778). Thanks.
Why can I not receive my late husband’s benefits, as ruled by the ALJ for “mental illness”, i.e., nervous breakdown, due to the death of my husband, and my own SS retirement benefits? I finally was able to work very part time but I made very little. Now I am house bound and could use both benefits. I worked since I was 15 years of age until I became ill.
My husband worked for the post office so I receive civil service benefits (he’s deceased) but he also paid 9 years into social security, his salary was much greater than mine after paying, I signed up late was not aware there was a penalty for this. I only draw 234.00
A month now that I’m cut 187. 00 this is a real hardship on me nothing left for groceries, is there any help for me..Thank you Carolyn Likes
Unfortunately, and because of security reasons we do not have access to personal records in this blog and cannot provide specific information at this time. One of our representatives should be able to assist you and provide better guidance. Please call our toll free number at 1-800-772-1213 for assistance. Representatives are available Monday through Friday, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Generally, you will have a shorter wait time if you call later during the day or later in the week. Thanks.
I was lied to. I was going to retire at 66 or 67 years old because I was going to continue to work after I retired from the Texas school district. I was told it did not matter if I earned a million dollars, I would still get the same amount if I retired at 65 years old. Instead of getting $735.00, I get $226.00 related to being misinformed. Please help me with this issue. I have a mortgage of $740.00 a month because I qualified related to being misinformation I am having a hard time having ends meet.
Sincerely
Hello Natalia. A pension based on work that is not covered by Social Security (for example, Federal civil service and some State or local government agencies) may cause the amount of your Social Security benefit to be reduced. Some school districts did not pay into Social Security, and are subject to the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP).
The WEP can affect how we calculate your benefit amount, resulting in a lower Social Security benefit than you otherwise would receive. Thanks!
I am retired and was on disability for a few years. I am now wondering if i could work a little to pay off some debt. The doctor told me not to go back to teaching, but something i can get out of easily if i need to. I do not understand how much extra i can make a year?
Hello Cathy, you can -still- work while you receive Social Security retirement benefits. Please visit our Benefits Planner: Getting Benefits While Working for complete information on this topic. Thanks!
I want to discontinue having the extra money for tax purposes taken out of my SS check.
I believe right now it is over 500 dollars a month.
I am fully retired and not receiving income.
Who should I calll to have this changed
Thank you for your question, Marcia. If you want to change or stop your withholding, you’ll need a Form W-4V from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
See our Benefits Planner: Withholding Income Tax From Your Social Security Benefits for more information on this topic.
To who it may concern. The cost of living in california is way over a 2% Increase. How can you explain this to a senior lady of 71 yrs of age. The cost of living here just keeps going up and up in every field. Rent, food gas
clothing.
Francine Carroll
I have reached my substantial earned income years. Can you explain to me what the windfall elimination means. Can I do early retirement also and not have my benefits reduced if I earn as much as I want?
I should be billed $134/month, as I was for first 4 months of coverage. I was also told this verbally by phone and your web site states $134/month for my coverage. I just received a premium notice for $201 per month to cover the next two months, total of $402, for the same coverage. I need this corrected. I’m 66YO, and if Soc. Sec. bills me for amounts like this, I’ll be in my 60s and beyond and unable to afford health insurance. I need someone to correct this!
Hello, because of security reasons we do not have access to personal records in this blog and cannot assist you at this time. One of our representatives should be able to help you and provide you with an explanation. Please call our toll free number at 1-800-772-1213 for assistance. Representatives are available Monday through Friday, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Generally, you will have a shorter wait time if you call later during the day or later in the week. Thanks.
Can I collect half of my husbands social security at my age 66 (born in 1953) and then collect mine when I turn 70? Or keep getting his if it is more?
Hello Sandra, if you were born before January 2, 1954 and have already reached full retirement age, you can choose to receive only the spouse’s benefit and delay receiving your retirement benefit until a later date.
See “Benefits For You As A Spouse” for more information. Thanks!
I read on the website that my full retirement age is 66 because I was born in 1951. I work 4 days a week and S.S. and Medicare continues to be taken out. At what point will I see an increase?
Thank you for the question, Permilia. Generally, if you continue to work while receiving retirement benefits, your monthly benefit amount may increase. As long as you continue to work and receive benefits, we will check your record every year to see whether the additional earnings will increase your monthly benefit. If there is an increase, we will send you a letter telling you of your new benefit amount. You can call our toll free number at 1-800-772-1213 for further assistance. Representatives are available Monday through Friday, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Thanks!
I retired July 1st 2016 but continue to work. All my social security was held back for 14 months. My benefit for the each month was to be 16 hundred and $31 times that by 14 months and they withheld $22,834 because I was making too much money working. In October 2017 I quit work I got with Social Security and they started paying me a monthly benefit of $1,631. They paid me $8,500 cash. Why I do not know. In April 2018 they said they paid me $2,700 more than I should have done. I’m paying that back $90 a month. I assumed they would make an adjustment when I turn 66 July 1st 2018. They said I had no more money coming. You take $22,834 subtract $5,800 that leaves $17,034 that was withheld not including the $2,700 I’m paying back which was withheld from me in the first place. How do I get this straightened out. Thank you
Hello Larry. Unfortunately, and because of security reasons we do not have access to personal records in this blog and cannot help you resolve this issue at this time. One of our representatives should be able to provide you with an explanation. Please call our toll free number at 1-800-772-1213 for assistance. Representatives are available Monday through Friday, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Generally, you will have a shorter wait time if you call later during the day or later in the week.
You can contact your local office and request a review of your records. Also, you can write to us or send us an email. Thanks.
I waited the delayed time to draw SS from divorce husband. I am 78 yrs now and only draw $866.30 monthly. Pay $178. Plus for 𝕄𝕖𝕕𝕚𝕔𝕒𝕝 gap insurance personally out of the $866. Why did I not get the $1600 monthly instead of a reduction?
Thank you for your question, Becky. Your benefit as a divorced spouse can ONLY be equal to one-half of your ex-spouse’s full retirement amount (or disability benefit) if you start receiving benefits at your full retirement age.
Please visit our Retirement Planner: If You Are Divorced for more information.
Why did I receive a one time ppayment of $514 on 10/04/2018 ?
Hi, Beatrice. For your security, we do not have access to information about private information in this venue. We ask that members in our Blog community to work with their local office on specific questions about their case. You can also call our toll free number at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). Representatives are available Monday through Friday between 7:00a.m. and 7:00p.m. Generally, you’ll have a shorter wait time if you call later in the week. We hope this helps!
What is the age of benefits I can earn without going over the amount I am receiving.
I’m 70 and collecting social security , working part time
Still paying social security on my paycheck. Will that increase my cola payment each month.can you tell how that works?
I have been working since collecting social security but there was a year while working before social security that I did not make anything. How do I go about seeing if this will increase my benefits
I would like a review of my retirement benefits based on my working past retirement at higher levels of income. How can that be done? Who should I contact to submit the figures and review this information? Please contact me.
Neal D. Maxfield
hello, i’ve been working part time since i began receiving social security benefits (in 2016), but i’m not sure if my benefits have increased to reflect the ssi tax withholding i’ve paid in that time.
thank you,
jonathan hartford
Why has my monthly total not increased. I have continued to work and make more each year. Please recalculate !
When I switched from 5 to 3 days a week of work, the Soc Sec agency adjusted the deductions to reflect the reduced income – I had not yet figured out how to inform Soc Sec before they did the reduction. I really appreciated that.
Does your retirement amount increase past the age of 70? If you work past 70 and you are still paying the full socialsecurity tax, will your payment increase? I pay a lot of SStax every paycheck because I still work fulltime but I turned 70 and intend on working another one to 3 years.
Last year received a raise, the Medicare payment was increased by the amount of increase. Will this be a normal thing.
I would like add part D to my Medicare,,,I am still working and have been paying for health insurance thru my employer but plan to retire soon.
On 10/12/2018 I received a one time payment of $340.20. What was that for?
You People are so “Full of SH*T!
I hadn’t had more than a 1% Cola in 5 years, last year the 2% COLA was Wiped out by the Medicare (& Advantage plan) Premium Increase !
I’m sure you’ll find a Way to Screw us out of This Years (2019) COLA. Make it one of Trumps DIET COLAs !
My wife and I have worked each summer for 5 months and the last 3 years. When will we see an increase in SS money?
Iam 70yrs old and working for a grocery chain for the last 4yrs. Are there any increase in my ss checks for this coming year.
how much of the 2.8 raise will go to Medicare payment?
So I started to take my SS at 67 and I continue to work full time. Does that mean that my check may increase as I continue to work full time?
are we getting a cola this year or have we already?
The online engine that will take me to my account on the first try told me that, the system had tried 3 times to access my account. Interesting enough that is a false statement because I had just signed for the first time, then I got that response and thought maybe I had done something wrong, so I re-entered my information and your system once again, said it had tried 3 times to access my account. I am thinking someone on your technical side of the house may want to look into their system just to make sure the t’s are crossed and the i’s are dotted. System errors can happen all of the time. n happen all of the time.
Thanks. This clears up a couple of questions I had.
Thank you for your comment, Samuel! We’re pleased we can help. We will continue our efforts to meet your requirements and expectations in the years to come.
Hi
Am I reading this right? I retired at 62 and worked for 2007== IN 2010 I went back full time and worked another 6 years. Did not stop my SS wish I had
I went over limit and had to pay everything back
I officially retired at 69 years old.2016. Is there any way to increase my SS it is an embarrassment as to the amount I receive
Thank you
Marie Horvath Knowlton
hurdmaria100@yahoo.com
Hello Marie. As long as you continue to work, even if you are receiving benefits, you will continue to pay Social Security taxes on your earnings. However, we will check your record every year to see whether the additional earnings you had will increase your monthly benefit. If there is an increase, we will send you a letter telling you of your new benefit amount.
Please visit “Getting Benefits While Working” for complete information on this topic. Thanks!
Thank you very much for this update.
Thanks for your feedback, Sallie! We value your opinion of us and look forward to many more years of serving you in the future.
My husband, who is still working, applied for suspended benefits (apply & suspend I believe is what it’s called) in 2016. I started getting my ss benefits also in 2016. Earlier this year he applied for spousal benefits on me & was denied, saying he should have cancelled his apply & suspend within a year. Why were we never told this & why does it make a difference? Is there anything else we can do to get spousal benefits? Thank you.
Hello Judith, please visit our “Voluntary Suspension Of Retirement Benefits and Deemed Filing For Retirement & Spouse’s Benefits” Frequently Asked Questions web pages for information on these important topics. Thanks!
I would like ssa to check my monthly benefit amount as I have been working full time since I started to receive ssa retirement but have seen no change in my monthly check for last 2 years. I assumed my monthly check would increase if I kept working while receiving ssa retirement benefits
Hello Michael. Each year, we review the records for all working Social Security recipients to see if additional earnings may increase their monthly benefits.
When you apply for retirement benefits, we base your benefit payment on your highest 35 years of earnings and your age when you start receiving benefits. 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.
If an increase is due, a new monthly benefit amount is established on your record automatically. See “Getting Benefits While Working” for more information. Thanks!
I returned to work in 2017, and paid FICA on approximately $65,000 in earnings, which is more than I earned in some of my highest 35 years of covered employment . I have not noticed any increase in my benefit level for that one year of work.
Hello Michael. Each year, we review the records for all working Social Security recipients to see if additional earnings may increase their monthly benefits.
When you apply for retirement benefits, we base your benefit payment on your highest 35 years of earnings and your age when you start receiving benefits. 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.
If an increase is due, a new monthly benefit amount is established on your record automatically and a notice is mail to you. We pay the increase retroactive to January the year after you earned the money.
See “Getting Benefits While Working” for more information. Thanks!
What is the full retirement birth yr 1948
Hello William. If you were born between 1943 and 1954 your full retirement age is 66.
Thank you. I appreciate the education as this is all new for me.
How can I get help paying for my drugs in medigap? I’m overwhelmed at having only $2500 in savings, not able to work due to physical disability ( respiratory). And having to pay $154.00 for a med I n Ed but not taking now because I can’t afford it.
I am urning 76 November 19,2018, I called social security last year to find out why, since I always make 10,000 to 12,000 more each year buy cleaning a business and by dog setting, I wondered why my meager Social Security was not continuing to grow; I was informed that after age 70 my Social Security benefits will not increase due to the amount I earn, even if these years are higher than many of my 35 best years. This is so unfair; when did this rule become effective and who was responsible for thils? Who would I contact to try to get this rule changed?
I began receiving my social security benefit payment at age 66. I have continued to work and my last three years of work have been my highest earning years by far.
Currently, I am paying into Social Security Employee Tax approximately $500.00 to $600.00 each month. My benefit amount is $2556 per month.
Point is it doesn’t seem right that I pay into it while receiving it. This effectively reduces my benefit by five to six hundred dollars per month and the amount I collect at age 70 will not be as much as if I had not elected to begin receiving it at normal retirement age.
Lots of good Info. Thank You.
I’VE BEEN WORKING SINCE I RETIRED IN 2010. I HAVE WORKED 2 PART TIME JOBS FOR 9 YRS I AM DOWN TO WORKING 1 PART TIME JOB .I AM NOT SEEING A DIME INCREASE IN MY S.S. CHECK. I HAVE CALLED THE LOCAL S.S. OFFICE. THEY SAID POSSIBLE I COULD GET A CO. ONCE A YEAR IT WOULDN’T AMOUNT TO MUCH. PLEASE HELP.ITS ALL I GOT TO LIVE ON & I AM GOING TO BE 76 IN JUNE. THANK YOU .
I receive Disability, why did you stop my survival benefits, I didn’t remarry??
Hello Eddie. Sometimes, a person may be eligible to receive Social Security benefits on more than one record. For example, a person may be entitled as a disabled worker on his/her own record and as a survivor on another record. However, a person’s benefit amount can never exceed the highest of either benefit amount to which they are entitled to receive.
Unfortunately, and because of security reasons we do not have access to personal records in this blog. One of our representatives should be able to provide you with a detailed explanation about your situation. Please call our toll free number at 1-800-772-1213 for assistance. Representatives are available Monday through Friday, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Generally, you will have a shorter wait time if you call later during the day or later in the week. Thanks!
Thank you – good information
We appreciate your thoughts. Thanks for your comment, Maria!
I was unable to get on to my ss account for the first time ever. I used the new security number you gave me and it said it was a bad number. I have now requested my info by mail which is an inconvenience to you and me. you should look into that for other people
We apologize for any inconvenience. If you are unable to create an account or encounter a problem with your my Social Security account, you may:
•Call us at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778), Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. At the voice prompt, say “helpdesk”; or
•Contact your local Social Security office. Thanks!
I can no longer afford heath insurance as my SS benefit check is the same as my mortage payment. I have a choice to eat or not to eat so please discontinue the health insurance. Thanks
Stewart
I took early retirement 2007 62 years old
Went back to work 2010 – 2016 full time
Had to pay back my SS
Am I eligible to have my SS reviewed and increased.
So embarrassing as to the small amount
Thank You
I am considering going back to work part time after I retired back in February 2017. DOB 06/29/1951 Is there a limited salary I can make and not be penalized? Thank you in advance for your assistance.
Loretta Harris
LRETTA57@COMCAST.NET
I am considering going back to work part time after I retired back in February 2017. DOB 06/29/1951 Is there a limited salary I can make and not be penalized? Will I receive an increase even working part time if I find employment?
Thank you in advance for your assistance.
Loretta Harris
LRETTA57@COMCAST.NET
I signed up online to start my social security. How do I check on the status of my application?
Hello Larry, you can check the status of your application online, using your personal my Social Security account. Your receipt should include a confirmation number you can use to check the status of your application.
You can also call our toll free number at 1-800-772-1213 and ask one of our agents to assist you. Representatives are available Monday through Friday, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Generally, you will experience a shorter wait time if you call late during the day or late in the week. Thanks!
I started collecting SS at age 70. I continue to have earned income. Some of the earnings from my ’35 years’ were below the maximum. How and where can I find out how much my SS check will be adjusted upwards??
Hello Anthony. Each year, we review the records for all working Social Security recipients to see if additional earnings may increase their monthly benefits.
When you apply for retirement benefits, we base your benefit payment on your highest 35 years of earnings and your age when you start receiving benefits.
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. If an increase is due, a new monthly benefit amount is established on your record automatically. See “Getting Benefits While Working” for more information.
If you need further assistance or to request a review of your records, call our toll free number at 1-800-772-1213. Representatives are available Monday through Friday, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Thanks!
This email is very, very unhelpful,is vague, nonspecific, and useless. It appears I will once again be forced to go sit in my social security office, wait for several hours to speak to an employee who might be able to answer my questions.
My advice: fire the person (s) who wrote this email. Hire a good writer who can cut this email in half and get to the point.
Otherwise set up a chat line.
Just a reminder – We do not have access to personal information, therefore, we do not do direct messaging in this venue. Please be aware that our official agency responses will always include the Social Security Administration (SSA) seal, and that we have an official social media team dedicated to posting messages and responses to customer inquiries or comments that specifically address SSA issues.
We respond to questions and provide general information on our Retirement, Survivors, Disability, Medicare and SSI programs. If you have a general question, we encourage you to ask here. But remember, never post personal information on social media channels.
Our goal is to give readers information about a variety of topics, including our programs, online services, current events, and human-interest stories, usually in greater detail than typically shared on our other social media platforms. We always attempt to respond to as many of the comments and questions as we possibly can. If we missed your question, consider re-submitting it again. Thanks!
Hi I didn’t get a deposit on my new green Direct Deposit card from Social Security. So I called the number listed for S.S. and was on the line for almost 4 hours, then a dummy robot comes on and starts asking me questions about the service I received and then hung up on me. My check was waiting for me at home (thank you for that) but I had been told I wasn’t in compliance with the law and hurriedly made arrangements for my third check to be on the card. Why wasn’t it and why wouldn’t someone come on the line before asking me survey questions????
We apologize for any inconvenience, Jan. If you’re referring to a Direct Express® account, you may call them at 1-800-333-1795 (TTY: 1-866-569-0447). Thanks!
I have been receiving social security benefits for 4years….on October 4th 2018 I turned 66yrs old…am I old enough for full retirement benefits now..if so, how do I go about getting it??Also….since I am 66yrs old now….am I aloud to work as much as I want without getting penalized?? I know there is a limit prior to this.
Thank you much–
Sara M. Baumgartner
519 Glen Ave.
Ellwood City,Pa. 16117
Email..hotstep52@yahoo.com
Hello Sara. If a person begins to receive benefits at age 62 or prior to their full retirement age, their benefits are reduced. These reduction factors are permanently applied to all of the benefits the person may qualify for. In the other hand, if you work and are full retirement age or older, the amount you make at work will not affect your Social Security benefits, no matter how much you earn. Please read our publication “How Work Affects Your Benefits” for more information. Thanks!
Do I receive ss benefits from my late husband when I’m 65? He died in 2007. I’m now 65.
Thank you for your question, Donna. If you are the widow of a person who worked long enough under Social Security, you can start receiving (reduced) survivor’s benefits at age 60 (age 50 if disabled).
You cannot apply for survivors’ benefits online. If you need to 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.
Thanks for the update. As I am still working for the time being, I wondered how that would work. Thanks for the update.
I have received reduced social security payments starting at age 63, since I also work the money the was not received and the 3 months that were held will that money come back to me as a one-time check or divided into monthly payments I will turn 66 full retirement age this February, also I was sent a letter saying I had received too much money and ended up owing social security 1200.00 dollars which they took from my check I am totally not understanding what is going on please help me to understand this.
Thanks
I collect my dead husband’s benefit. But if I got a part time job. I would be working under my own social security number. Therefore, is it true that no amount of FICA contribution I make would increase his survivors benefit that I currently collect
Awaiting your response
Thank you.
Hi Michele, thank you for your question. If you’re receiving a reduced widow’s benefit, the benefit reduction could be adjusted at your full retirement age due to work. Also, keep in mind that if you are also eligible for retirement benefits (but haven’t applied yet), you have an option on switching to your retirement benefit at a later date (if it’s higher than your widow’s benefit). See our Survivors Planner: If You Are The Survivor for more information.
To see if you qualify for a higher benefit than what you are currently receiving, use our online retirement estimator or call our toll free telephone number at 1-800-772-1213, Monday through Friday between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. and ask a representative to assist you.
I started to receive social security retirement benefit before my full retirement but decided to continue working. I am currently working at age 70. The question is for that period of earnings that I have accumulated after I received social security retirememt benefit, will there be an adjustment whenever I am fully retired?
Thank you for the question. When you reach full retirement age, we will recalculate your benefit amount to leave out the months when we reduced or withheld benefits due to your excess earnings. In addition, each year we review your work record. 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 month.
I heard you could collect against your ex spouse if married more than 10 years. I was married 34 years. At age 62 I was unemployed so was going to collect on his until I reached full retirement age so I could get my full benefit at 66. I was told that I could not do that and would have to collect on my record. So I ended up filling for my benefit with the lower retirement rate. Doesn’t seem quite fair. Al ways wondered if that was correct and maybe should have questioned it. Also now I have continued working part-time for the last 6 years to make up for it.
Thanks for the question, Judith. Your benefit as a divorced spouse can be equal to one-half of your ex-husband’s full retirement amount and it’s half if you start receiving those benefits at your full retirement age. If you begin to receive benefits at age 62 or prior to your full retirement age, your benefits are reduced. The reduction factors are permanently applied to all of the benefits you qualify for once you opt to start benefits at age 62 or at any time prior to your full retirement age.
Remember, if you qualify for your own retirement benefits and for benefits as an ex-spouse, we always pay your own benefits first. If your benefits as an ex-spouse are higher than your own retirement benefits, you will get a combination of benefits equaling the higher spouse benefit.
See our Retirement Planner: If You Are Divorced for more information.
If your former spouse is deceased and you need information about possible survivors benefits, please read, “If You’re The Worker’s Surviving Divorced Spouse.”
My husband is 66 years old and continues to work full time as a teacher. He hopes to continue teaching, but wonders if he should begin claiming his social security payments and continue teaching. What’s the thinking on that?
Hi Suzi. We are often asked, “What’s the best age to start receiving retirement benefits?” The answer is that there’s not a single “best age” for everyone and, ultimately, it’s your choice. The most important thing is to make an informed decision. Base your decision about when to apply for benefits on your individual and family circumstances. The factsheet on “When to Start Receiving Retirement Benefits” can provide a better understanding of how Social
Security fits into your retirement decision.
I haven’t used my Medicare Dr. or Hosp. care since 9/2015. Is there a possibility that I could get a refund of the monthly amt. that is deducted from my small S.Sec. check ea. month since Sept., 2015?
Hi Betty, thank you for your question. The Medicare premiums are not refundable based on usage. However, you may be eligible to receive assistance from the state where you live. Medicare enrollees who have limited income and resources may get help paying for their premiums and out-of-pocket medical expenses through the Medicare Savings Programs (MSP). Please call the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services at 1-800-633-4227 for more information. We hope this information is helpful.
Can you work after 70 and still get your social security checks?
Hello Richard. At 70, you’ve reached your full retirement age. If you work and are full retirement age or older, the amount you make at work will not affect your Social Security benefits, no matter how much you earn. Please read our publication “How Work Affects Your Benefits” for more information. Thanks!
Great information! I appreciate the news alerts.
can i please have an appointment with Social Security office in San Leandro, Ca
Thank you,
Hello Nasser. We currently do not have an online appointment scheduler. However, many services, including applying for retirement, disability or Medicare benefits, are conveniently available online.
If you do not want to apply for benefits online, or you need to speak to us for any other reason, you can schedule an appointment by calling us at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) between 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday. Or you can contact your local Social Security office directly. Thanks!
I am 66. But don’t want my SSnpayments to begin until January 2019. Can I complete the application now and deferr payments to begin Jan 2019?
Hello Julia, our system is set up to take applications four months in advance. You can apply for your benefits online at any time now. Remember that benefits are paid the month after they are due. So, for instance, if you want your benefits to begin with the month of January, you will receive your first benefit payment in February.
Please visit our Social Security Retirement Planner for more information.
Congratulations and Happy Retirement!
how is the cost of living figured, what elements go in to figuring the cost of living. this is a question no one seems to know the answer to.
Hello Jimmy. Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits for more than 67 million Americans will increase 2.8 percent in 2019. This is the annual cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). By law, federal benefits increase when the cost of living rises, as measured by the Department of Labor’s Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W). For more details about the COLA, visit http://www.ssa.gov/cola. Thanks!
HOW CAN I RECEIVE AN INCREASE IN MY BENEFITS
Hello Martin. Generally, if you continue to work while receiving retirement benefits, your monthly benefit amount could increase. Each year, we review the records for all working Social Security recipients to see if additional earnings may increase monthly benefits.
The other way your monthly benefit amount could increase is based on the Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA), which is announced each year in October. We hope this information helps!
You guys do a great Job !!
Thanks for everything.
I retired in 2016 after working 43 years and began drawing my SS benefits at age 62. In August-2018 my brother in law turned 62 and began receiving his SS benefits (with 32 years of service with a lower paying job) and he’s drawing over $500 a month more than I currently do??? Can I ask for a review of my monthly benefits to see if I’m being short changed?
Would it be possible for you to let me know if I can receive an adjustment now that I have reached full retirement age (I took early retirement at 62, am now 69). I also do not know if I received reduced benefits and exceeded the earnings limit.
Thank you
Hello Wilfrido. If a person begins to receive benefits at age 62 or prior to their full retirement age, their benefits are reduced. The reduction factors are permanently applied to all of the benefits the person may qualify for.
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. See “Getting Benefits While Working” for more information on this topic. Thanks!
I have heard that being active in the military from 1966 to 1969 that it would count toward their SSI. If this is true what does my husband have to do.
Hello Linda. Earnings for active duty military service or active duty training have been covered under Social Security since 1957. Under certain circumstances, special extra earnings for your military service from 1957 through 2001 can be credited to your record for Social Security purposes. Please read our publication: Military Service and Social Security for more information. Thanks!
I am now age 84. I have continued to work after age 65. Am I entitled to an increase in SS because of the additional work?
Thank you for your question, Kenneth. The amount of benefits you receive is established at the time you applied for retirement benefits. It is based on the amount of your average lifetime earnings and your age at the time you applied. Generally, we use the highest years of earnings to calculate your monthly benefit amount. However, if you continue to work while receiving retirement benefits, your monthly benefit amount could increase. Each year, we review the records for all working Social Security recipients to see if additional earnings may increase monthly benefits.
It was not made clear in your article on COLA, what I need to do to see how, to get my pay increase for this past year, 2018. As well as this coming year 2019.
Hello Mary. Recently, we announced a 2.8 percent cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) in 2019. More than 67 million Americans who receive monthly benefits will automatically receive the increase.
The COLA will take effect with Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments paid on December 31, 2018, and Social Security payments paid in January 2019. You can find useful information on the 2019 Medicare changes, when announced, at http://www.medicare.gov.
For more details about the new COLA, visit http://www.ssa.gov/cola. Thanks!
Why have I not received an ss increase in six years?
inflation has increased every year. My rent has increased every year. My Med Care co-pay increases every year. Every item in the food markets has increased. Gasoline no standards, just high priced. Others, yes.
What I read vs what I receive seems like double standards to please not perform.
Hi James, thank you for your question. The purpose of the COLA is to ensure that the purchasing power of Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits is not eroded by inflation. By law, federal benefits increase when the cost of living rises, as measured by the Department of Labor’s Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W). See the Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) Information page for details and its history.
For some beneficiaries, their Social Security increase may be partially or completely offset by increases in Medicare premiums. For information about Medicare premiums, visit http://www.medicare.gov.
I did not get my new social security card. My husband received his months ago. Please advise if I need to make a trip to the local social security office. This is hard for me because I cannot leave my husband alone. Thank you. Angelina Bowen DOB 4/23/51
Hi Angelina. Thank you for your question. If you’re referring to the new Medicare cards, Medicare will automatically mail your new card to the address on file with Social Security. As long as your address is up to date, there’s nothing you need to do. If you need to update your address , you can use your personal my Social Security account.
Mailing millions of Medicare cards takes some time, so you might get your card at a different time than your husband.
Thank you for this information. I was totally unaware that you had so many policies in place to help increase the social security income for those persons (like myself) that needed and began receiving social security income at the earliest possible time legally despite knowing I was “leaving money on the table”. God bless your new policies and educating seniors like myself that there is still hope for increased benefits to help out
It is problematic month to month when I have to wait an additional week to receive my check & pay my bills for the month. Unlike older Americans who always receive their check on a specific day (3rd) of the month. I do believe there is a loss of funds for waiting the extra week per quarter for a sum of one check per year. I would prefer my payment on the same day of the month. After all, all my working life paying SS was done each & every paycheck scheduled weekly or biweekly. No waiting there!
Hi Concetta, thank you for your question. The Social Security benefit payment schedule is not based on the number of weeks in a month. Social Security benefits are paid monthly and the payment date is based on your day of birth. You may find our Schedule of Social Security Benefit Payments calendars helpful.
Great stuff.!!
We appreciate your thoughts, Mark. Thanks for your comment!
I have a new address: XX Academy St, McSherrystown. Could you please make this change.
Thank you,
Terry Lynne Furr
Hello Terry. Unfortunately, and because of security reasons we do not have access to personal information in this blog and cannot update your records.
If you get Social Security benefits or are enrolled in Medicare, you can change your address online by creating your personal my Social Security account.
Just a reminder – Please be cautious about posting personal information on social media channels. Thanks!
I checked my Social Security account and there is no place to ask about the COLA any where on the sight, even though I received an e-mail to check.
Hello Danny, for more details about the new COLA, visit http://www.ssa.gov/cola. Thanks!
Health care is taken.
Why?
I don’t need it.
When I get sick . I will die or get better.
Drug store drugs will kill.
I don’t want them.
I don’t need them.
Stop pushing drugs on me.
Thank you for the platform
The Medicare program, is managed by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). For general information, please visit http://www.Medicare.gov. Thanks!
How do I request a letter of proof of SS I’m trying to buy a house
Hello Janst. If you need proof you get Social Security benefits, Supplemental Security (SSI) Income or Medicare, you can request a benefit verification letter online by using your personal my Social Security account. Thanks!
I took early retirement at age 62 in 2008 .. I will be turning 72 nov 20, 2008 … do I qualify for an adjustment or increase due to full retirement age… thanks
oops .. I will be 72 nov. 20 2018 … see previous note
I filed for Social Security Benefits at age 62 and took the lesser amount. Am I eligible for an increase in payments? I am now 73.
My income increased significantly after taking SS at 66 and 1/2 then last year (2017) dropped but medicare stayed at highest level, have sent in income tax for that year and this year income will be like 2017. When will I hear and what about an increase for those high years 2014 through 2016?
If we are retired and are working 40 hours each month, are we eligible to receive an increase?
I have been working continually after retiring and drawing SS at age 62. I am now 81 and still working. Why do I still have to have SS and Medicare deducted from my salaries. How can my SS increase other than when everyone gets a
raise.
Thank you for your questions, Ann. Under current law, everyone working in covered employment or self-employment regardless of age or eligibility for benefits must pay Social Security and Medicare taxes.
Generally, if you continue to work while receiving retirement benefits, your monthly benefit amount could increase. Each year, we review the records for all working Social Security recipients to see if additional earnings may increase monthly benefits. The other way your monthly benefit amount could increase is based on the Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA). Thanks!
How do you know that I have retired and that I no longer have my work income? What is your source of income information to see if I should be getting a post retirement raise in my monthly SS.
If continuing to work after starting to receive SS Benefits, is your income automatically reviewed and benefits adjusted, or do you need to request a review??
Great question, David. Each year, we review the records for all working Social Security recipients to see if additional earnings may increase their monthly benefits.
When you apply for retirement benefits, we base your benefit payment on your highest 35 years of earnings and your age when you start receiving benefits. 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.
If an increase is due, a new monthly benefit amount is established on your record automatically. See “Getting Benefits While Working” for more information. Thanks!
Please send me information by mail because I do not use my work e-mail for personal business.
Thank you
Hello Nanette. Please call our toll free number at 1-800-772-1213 for assistance. Representatives are available Monday through Friday, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Generally, you will have a shorter wait time if you call later during the day or later in the week.
Just a reminder – We do not have access to personal information, therefore, we do not do direct messaging in this venue. Please be cautious about posting personal information on social media and communicating personal information via email. Thanks!
What if due to circumstances, you had to take your SSI, before the retirement age, can you get that money when you fo reach the right age for retirement. I had to take my SSI at 62, I will be 65 in February 2019. Any options.
Hello! When a person begins to receive benefits at age 62 or prior to their full retirement age, their benefits are reduced. These reduction factors are permanently applied to all of the benefits the person may qualify for.
So called COLA “ cost of living “ raise
barely covers the Medicare increase.
i woul like more info for myself
Why am I not eligible to receive my former retired spouse of 22 years? Please explain.
Hello Doris. Unfortunately, and because of security reasons we do not have access to personal records in this blog and cannot answer your question at this time. One of our representatives should be able to provide you with an explanation. Please call our toll free number at 1-800-772-1213 for assistance. Representatives are available Monday through Friday, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Generally, you will have a shorter wait time if you call later during the day or later in the week.
For information on the requirements for Divorced Spouse’s Benefits, read “If You Are Divorced“. Thanks!
Instead of receiving the cola for 2018 they take and added to Medicare payment ($134) the cost of living is for every retired people but the state increase the Medicare payment that not fair to people who work and pay taxes and social security the people on SSI know making more money and benefit then US they didn’t work one day in this country they didn’t pay taxes or social security they receive near $900.00 dollars a month with almost free housing $230.00 and IHHS to help them plus all kind of free items but us we are paying big rent more than I receive from my SSA plus utilities plus food plus everything that most cover my retirement fro working not even $950.00 we are the working people who work and retired to be helped don’t take our cola and add for Medicare payment give it to us, have you check the busses who go to the casino look inside see the people who going to gambling not US who is struggling to pay bill ,rent, and using credit card to pay for food and other thing even we have to buy dental insurance ($590.00)a year . God bless you and have a nice day . Meantime I am disabled and 77 year old I can’t find a job to cover my expenses and help me to live a little bit better..
I applied for Social Security benefits in 2015, but because I worked in Canada (17 years) prior to getting married and moving to the United States and working for 21 years, my Social Security was reduced. I did not then, nor do I now fully understand why this was done, as my Canada Pension and Old Age Security benefits in Canada were reduced as well, so I do not currently receive the full benefits to which I was entitled based on my years of working in Canada or the United States.
My question is:
Am I entitled to additional Social Security benefits?
Thank you
Violet Parker
(972-948-0912)
Hello Violet. Unfortunately, and because of security reasons we do not have access to personal records in this blog and cannot answer your question at this time. One of our representatives should be able to provide you with an explanation.
We recommend that individuals living outside the United Sates contact the nearest Federal Benefit Unit or U.S. embassy in their area for assistance related to Social Security benefits. You can also use the Canadian Service Area Directory to determine which Resident Office is near you. We hope this information helps!
Will there be a COLA in the coming year 2019, and if so, how much and when would you get it?
For more details about the new COLA, visit http://www.ssa.gov/cola. Thanks!
I have worked 2 jobs since 2001
one with the state of new york
one as a private practice physician(ie self employed)
with the state of new york i paid FICA taxes as an employee
as a private practice self employed physician i paid FICA taxes as the employee and employer
so i essentially was two different people doing two different jobs
and now as oct 2018 i retired from my nys job
i am still a self employed physician paying both ends of FICA
i waited until 70yo to start collecting my full SS benefits( from age 67 i took partial payouts from my spouse’s benefits)
YET when i look at my earnings history dating back to 1965 the 4 years of $0 (zero) income i had from 1978-1981 when i was in medical school they are still there and i have not seen a noticeable increase in my full SS benefits as i have continued to work and pay FICA(as 2 different people so to speak)
when will these increase and those zero income years be replaced?? as stated above in the article above ‘THREE COMMON WAYS YOUR SOCIAL SECURITY PAYMENTS CAN INCREASE AFTER RETIREMENT’
is there anything i have to do?? will you answer this or do i have to contact social security personally??
thank you robert w burdick, md
Hello Robert. Unfortunately, and because of security reasons we do not have access to personal records in this blog and cannot answer your question at this time. One of our representatives should be able to provide you with an explanation. Please call our toll free number at 1-800-772-1213 for assistance. Representatives are available Monday through Friday, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Generally, you will have a shorter wait time if you call later during the day or later in the week. Or contact your local Social Security office. Thanks!
thank you will do as you suggest
why has no one replied to my nov 7 2018 question(s)
What does COLA consider when calculating our increase? It seems like food, energy and gas are not included in this formula and those are the things that affect us the most. It is very distressing that more and more companies are moving to a $15 per hour minimum wage and it is hurting all of who are on limited Social Security payments. Unfortunately, I still have a house payment that eats up half of my check. Poor planning on my part but everything is going up expediently except my income. Is there any way to increase more than COLA?
Hello Theresa. By law, the Social Security Administration uses the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W) determined by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) in the Department of Labor to calculate Cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs).
For more details about the new COLA, visit http://www.ssa.gov/cola. Thanks!
Does this apply to early retirement
I just turned 66 in October my disability was changed to retirement but I did not receive an increase. Will i receive an increase?
How can I increase my monthly payment of I receive SS Disability?
I cancelled my insurance 6 months ago because I’m living outside the USA and my insurance is NOT covered. BUT SS is still deducting my payments. I call every month and the same answer. I have npw paid in over 5000.00 us dollars for no coverage.
Thank you. Will look forward for increase. My social security keeps me going. I am so glad I worked the extra years to receive a decent check.
How can i get list of people who i worked for during my lifetime that paid me social security ?
Several years after starting social security retirement I settled with IRS paying them 37k in back self employment taxes and interest. I have often wondered why that payment did not cause an increase in my monthly income from social security.
At retirement I was 100% disabled. How can I check if I am getting the correct payout?
what is the formula used to calculate my adjusted social security if I continue to work after I started receiving my payments.
I worked many years after receiving S.S on my husbands SS. Will I be able to receive more?
Hello Marie. Please visit our “Getting Benefits While Working” web page for information on this topic. Thanks!
i find it very hard to get into my online account.
Changed email address
Sure. All I’ve had is penalties for working after 62 and them taking money back out of my social security plus paying in ea month out of my paycheck
I only have $547 left deposited in my social security Acct ea month. . Great living on this. I asked for a break and they told me too bad keep working
Until I pay them over $10k and I’m well over 70.
My first husband passed away and so did my second. I am a widow and on SS disability with stage 4 cancer. Would I qualify for my first husband SS or part of it?
Hello Terri. If you are the widow of a worker who dies, you could get benefits as early as age 60 (age 50 if disabled). See our “Benefits Planner for Survivors – If You Are The Survivor” for more information. Thanks!
How much does your SS payment increase I started receiving it at 66 and still working?
Hello Harold, please visit our web page: “Getting Benefits While Working” for more on this topic. Thanks!
Does the increase include divorced spouses?
Does the COLA increase include divorced spouses?
I’ve been retired for six years. Been working on a part time regular basis. When will the increase be calculated from this income
MY increases for SS are not noted or maybe they are? I am still working and making about $10,000 per year.
what is the difference between Social Security and SSI?
I would like to know if I am getting the right amount of retiring ssi or if I am due to some COLA
Ivonny Kiess S.S.I *** – ** – ***
I am a dialysis patient and am unable to work because of it. How do I get more financial help to pay bills.By the time I pay my monthly bills im broke.Please advise.
Please advise why I did not receive an increase in 2018 benefits, and my husband received just a 1.15% increase? Thank you.
I started receiving benefits at 62yrs and am now 68yrs. I don’t know if I got a reduced benefit or not. What can I do now to find out?
I’m retired now, in 2013 it was ascertained that I should apply for Dssi before receiving SSI, due to an overriding disability f osteoarthritis and fibromyalgia that hindered being able to continue working in retail sale. Once I applied for SSI, a determination that Dssi shoul d be paid retroactive to the date of termination from my previous source of work.
My question for you is: at age 67, Nov. 19th I turn 68, I have the possibility of being hired by a low key family owned company, how many hours per week may I work without impacting my current SSI payment? I noticed that I can work, thus adding to future increases in my benefits payments.
Looking forward to a speedy response
Richard Styron
Why bother to give us a COLA WHEN
Medicare takes it away!
Great info, I wasn’t aware of all that
Nice
How are you doing
I am 84 years old and the amount I receive from SS is not enough to live, is there a way to increase my monthly SS. TY, george Beblis
I received an inheritance and my social security was reduced. I am asking why????
Can I receive added social security benefits from my husbands social security?
when I was a widow, several years ago, I was told that if I remarried and after 10 years had passed, that my new spouse would be able to draw the same SS amount that I now have coming to me even though it was from my late husbands SS number. Could you let me know if this is correct. Thank you
This article is very informative and well written. Thank you for sharing.
My husband passed in 01/04/2008 I retired in 2015 I think and was getting his ssi. Would I get an increase now that I worked past RETIERe meant age ?
I am currently 64 years old, my husband is 67 and retired. I’m also getting disability. Next year when I turn 65 can I apply to get part of his SS?
This email was very informative!
Can you make as much money as you want after age 65, while collecting Social Security?
My name is Robert Cronenberg and I would like to review my social security payment. I started collecting at 66 and am now 71 and I am still working. The last 5 years have been my best income years. Please review my information and let me know
My wife’s and my social security benefits were drastically reduced a couple of years ago do to one time income increase from selling our house. We mostly paid off loans and mortgage with the proceeds. Why hasn’t our monthly benefits gone back to the original amounts we always received prior to the sell? What do we need to do about this? Thanks
this is very helpful. Thank you. I scrolled through my email–but have no record of receiving this type of information previously. Did this service just begin? If this email educational service has been in place, how long has it been in place? Is there a way that I can retrieve the emails that are like this that date back to prior than September 6, 2018?
Please advise.
I haven’t received information on just the amount of Social Security I am to receive when there is increases after retirement. Please inform me when and just how much increases there are yearly or
Hi Joanne. Your COLA notice will be available online in the Message Center of your my Social Security account in December 2018. Although you will still receive this COLA notice by mail this year, in the future, you will have a choice of online or paper notification.
For more on Social Security Cost-of-Living adjustment for 2019, click HERE. Thanks!
Dear ssi. Am not sure what to do with this cola notice do I need to call or text your office ? Am not very Computer literate am not sure what to do can you please help.
For the two increases other than a COLA, do I have to keep track and notify the Social Security Administration or does the SSA keep track of changes in employment and income and notify me?
When i signed up on line i dont believe i was asked if i was a veteran i see now i should have recied more $ becuz of that if you need me to fax a dd214 i will i will be waiting for your responce😎
Hello Thomas, thank you for your question. Since 1957, if you had military service earnings for active duty (including active duty for training), you paid Social Security taxes on those earnings. Since 1988, inactive duty service in the Armed Forces reserves (such as weekend drills) has also been covered by Social Security.
Under certain circumstances, special extra earnings for periods of active duty from 1957 through 2001 can also be credited to your Social Security earnings record for benefit purposes.
•If you were in the active military service from 1957 through 1967, special extra earnings are added to your earnings record when you apply for Social Security benefits.
•If your active duty was after 1967, the extra earnings are already on your record.
There are no special extra earnings credits for military service after 2001.
These special earnings credits are added to your earnings record automatically when you apply for Social Security benefits.
Please read our publication: Military Service and Social Security https://www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10017.pdf for more information. Thanks!
Than I you for the update !
I retired about 10 years ago. They told me they figure it from the last 5 years of earning. This article says they figure it from the last 35 years the highest earnings. the last 5 years I had moved and had to take a less salary so now I have lower SS than I had expected. How can I find out what I should be getting?
Why does Medicare stay the same if they would give me the withholdings i could pay my deductible with it
I am turning 65 and would like to know if my social security can be raised, I do receive her but not much a month. Which means when I started receiving social security answers especially I was about 55 and retired, I am now at retirement age which is 65 and want to know what my best bet would be. thanks
If I delayed taking my SS for 4 years and took my deceased husbands for those years is it still possible I might see an increase? How can I determine this?
I started receiving ss benefits at my retirement age . But then I worked for another five years. Does social security ever re-calculate benefits so I can receive more benifits?
I started collecting be for full retirement age and I continued to work and I had a stroke at the age of 67. Am I eligible to apply for handicap SS benefits?
Your statements about increased monthly payments are not true. I am 72 years old with no “earned income” and you have reduced my monthly benefits to the point that I can no longer make my house payments and the bank will not refinance due to my age. Your story is for immigrants not American citizens.
How do I determine if I am eligible for additional compensation. I have been retired since November 2003.?
Thank you for contacting us, Fleming. For security reasons, we do not have access to personal records in this blog and cannot assist you with your request. Please call our toll-free number at 1-800-772-1213 where representatives are available Monday through Friday, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. or visit your local Social Security office for more information. Thanks.
My wife and I had both of our Social Security benefits (monthly payments) reduced for 2018. This was apparently due to a one-time timber harvest which occurred in 2017. Will our monthly benefits be restored for the 2019 year since we had the one time increase in yearly income?
Hello Jonas & Jennie. For security reasons, we do not maintain access to personal records via this blog and cannot assist with your request. We suggest contacting our toll-free number at: 1-800-772-1213. Representatives are available Monday through Friday, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m or visit your local Social Security office for more information. Hope this helps. Thanks.
I retired at age 62. I am nowv69. Can get an increase in my benefits?
Hello Michael. Great question! If you started to receive your retirement benefits at age 62 or at anytime prior to your full retirement age, your benefits are then reduced. This reduction is due to early retirement and is permanently applied to all benefits you may qualify for. See information on Early or Late Retirement. We hope this helps. Thanks.
I applied for social security before I reached retirement age (don’t remember at what age I was) and continued to work and finally retired at age 69. How do I check to see if I am receiving the right amount?
I stopped working after I had two children and started working again when they got older. My question is do women still get some kind of credit for Social Security for staying home to care for their children? I was told that they do.
Hi Beverly, thank you for your questions. We figure everyone’s retirement benefit the same way. It’s based on a percentage of your average monthly wage using a 35-year base of earnings. If you don’t have 35 years of earnings, we must substitute “zero” years to reach the 35-year base.
Regarding your question on how do you know if you’re receiving the right benefit amount, you can always call our national toll free number at 1-800-772-1213. Representatives are available Monday through Friday, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.
Generally, if you continue to work while receiving retirement benefits, your monthly benefit amount may increase. As long as you continue to work and receive benefits, we will automatically check your record every year to see whether the additional earnings will increase your monthly benefit. If there is an increase, we will send you a letter telling you of your new benefit amount.
I was approved for SSI based on having had a major stroke and being bipolar in 2000. I had originally made my application in Texas in approximately 1996 and was turned down. Then I appealed in Pennsylvania and was again turned down. Finally Social Security had me see a psychiatrist and I was immediately approved.
Was I actually paid for all that time (over four years) between my initial application and the granting of SSI?
Thank you for contacting us, Barbara. Unfortunately, and because of security reasons, we do not have access to personal records in this blog and cannot assist you.
To inquire about potential back pay, call our toll-free number at 1-800-772-1213. Representatives are available Monday through Friday, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.
Very interested in knowing what part of my benefits my wife will receive when I pass away.
Hi Kevin, thank you for your question. Your wife’s survivor amount is based on your earnings. The more you paid into Social Security, the higher her benefit will be. If you are already receiving reduced benefits when you die, survivors benefits are based on that amount.
Widows benefit are payable as early as age 60 (for a reduced benefit) or a full widows benefit at full retirement age or older.
Use our Survivors Planner to look at how your family members are protected if you die.
Do I need to let SS know I’m planning on working a little since my benefits started? Plus I’ll be working in a different state than where my regular home address is ?
Hi Jodene, thank you for your question. It depends on the type of Social Security benefit that you’re receiving.
If you’re receiving retirement, spouses or survivor benefits, check out our Retirement Planner: Getting Benefits While Working web page.
If you’re receiving disability benefits, check out our Disability Planner: If You Go Back To Work web page.
I would like to have some information on where to get a part time job, I’m 71 years old and retired but can’t make ends meet. I live in Kendall, in the Hammocks area.
Thank you
I work part time occasionally. I receive monthly ssi and my employer takes out social security tax. Will this increase my social security benefit?
I do not know much about computer’s when l ck. my
E mail I have to have to call for help.
ALOHA: I started receiving SS benefits a few years ago. I started to work as a substitute teacher in December 2017. I have been working continually since then. Is there something I need to do to obtain a higher monthly stipend? Will SSA automatically readjust me monthly benefits? I had previously not worked 35 years. Please let me know as soon as you can. MAHALO
Hi there, thank you for your question. Generally, if you continue to work while receiving retirement benefits, your monthly benefit amount may increase. As long as you continue to work and receive benefits, we will automatically check your record every year to see whether the additional earnings will increase your monthly benefit. If there is an increase, we will send you a letter telling you of your new benefit amount. You can call our toll free number at 1-800-772-1213 for further assistance. Representatives are available Monday through Friday, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Thanks!
I was actually disabled when I took early retirement. Unfortunately, I was disabled for a while before I tried to get disability, so I did not have much income and my husband was still working. Consequently, I did not qualify. We ended up filing for bankruptcy due to it. I worked from the time I was 16 years old.
Thanks
Will SSA send out letters explaining how these 3 ways one’s benefits may increase and the time frames that the increases will fall in?
I noticed in your report that the highest salary in 35 years is used for retirement. I believe my last salary was used for my social security retirement which was 18 dollars/hr. I made 25 dollars/hr at my previous employment as a nurse at Ocean View nursing home here in florida. how can I correct this??
Hi Anne, thank you for the question. A Social Security retirement benefit is calculated by using your highest 35 years of earnings. If you do not have 35 years of earnings, we will use all of the earnings on your record and factor in an annual total of $0.00 earnings for each of the remaining years.
If you need to correct your earnings record, see our Frequently Asked Questions web page for details.
I have been working 9 years after beginning to receive my SS check. My gross earnings have been over 90 k for the last 4 years but to my knowledge no increase in monthly check ( direct deposit). Please look into this.
Thank you
Hi John, thank you for using our blog to ask your question. Generally, if you continue to work while receiving retirement benefits, your monthly benefit amount may increase. As long as you continue to work and receive benefits, we will check your record every year to see whether the additional earnings will increase your monthly benefit. If there is an increase, we will send you a letter telling you of your new benefit amount.
Keep in mind that your Social Security retirement benefit is calculated using your 35 highest indexed years. Indexing is a way of giving your wages a higher value. It’s how we ensure that your future benefits reflect the general rise in the standard of living that occurred during your working lifetime. However, once you attain age 60, your wages are no longer indexed into a higher value. What you make is what is used. So, your recent earnings are probably not being indexed which means they may not be part of your 35 highest years.
You can call our toll free number at 1-800-772-1213 for further assistance. Representatives are available Monday through Friday, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Thanks!
Is it necessary for me to contact SS to check on my earning adjustment? I’ve worked for 4 years after I started receiving SS.
Thank you for your question, Charles. You can work while you receive Social Security retirement 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.
See “Getting Benefits While Working” for complete information.
I received my ss benefits at 62 and it is a very small amount can I collect from my husband’s benefits while
he is alive?
Matina Glaropoulos
g.glaropoulos1@verizon.net
Thank you
My wife retired at age 63, we are both age 68 now and I have been retired for about three years. My benefit is over twice her benefit – can she receive benefits based upon spousal benefit- we have been married over 30 years
Steve
Hello Steve. Your wife could be entitled to receive up to one-half the amount of your full retirement benefit -only- if she applies for benefits at her full retirement age.
Keep in mind, if a person begins to receive benefits at age 62 or prior to their full retirement age, their benefits are reduced. The reduction factors are permanently applied to all of the benefits the person may qualify for.
See Retirement Planner: Benefits For Your Spouse for more information.
Generally, during the initial interview when applying for Social Security benefits, we typically explore other possible eligibility that could yield the claimant with a higher benefit amount. To find out if she is eligible for a higher benefit amount, she will need to speak to one of our representatives. She can call us at 1-800-772-1213 between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Monday through Friday or contact her local Social security office. Thanks!
Info on working part-time after 65y/o
Hi Edward, please visit our web page: “Getting Benefits While Working“. Thanks!
Why dosen’t Medicare offer a supplemental insurance coverage. I pay twice the amount for my supplemental coverage than I do for Medicare. So offer 100% coverage for twice the cost of of current Medicare.
Why do we always have to enrich insurance companies on the backs of those who can least afford it?
Hi Dennis, thank you for your question. You may want to check out the Medicare website which has information on different types of Medicare health plans.
What a farce….. our SS payment have not increased in years but government employees give themselves big fat raises…..
IF I DESIDE TO STOP WORKING AFTER FULL AGE 70 DO I NEED TO VISIT SSI OFFICE TO APPLY FOR FULL BENEFITS RITEREMENT? My full age 70 will bee January 2019 Thank you
Hi Zahrie. Social Security retirement benefits are increased by a certain percentage (depending on your date of birth) if you delay your retirement beyond your full retirement age. However, the benefit increase no longer applies when you reach age 70, even if you continue to delay taking benefits.
Keep in mind, if you continue to work while receiving retirement benefits, your monthly benefit amount may increase. As long as you continue to work and receive benefits, we will check your record every year to see whether the additional earnings will increase your monthly benefit. If there is an increase, we will send you a letter telling you of your new benefit amount.
You can apply four months before you want your benefits to start. When you’re ready to apply for retirement benefits, use our online retirement application, the quickest, easiest, and most convenient way to apply. You can also call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778), Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. to make an appointment.
I am beginning work in 1975 and get retirement ssa benefits in 2012 that is over 35 of years working and I am still keep working to now.Can my benefits increase now ? I am not stop work any time since 1975 to now 2018 and keep go to 2019 too .
Thanks a lot for Your quick answer .