How the Elderly Can Acquire Their Needed Social Security Benefits
Thursday, July 27, 2017, 6:00 AM | Leave Comment
Social Security was signed into law in the 1930s as a social insurance program for the elderly.
The premise of the program is that you pay taxes into the program during your working years and then receive benefits in retirement.
Most people are eligible for Social Security at age 62, although they may not want to start receiving benefits right away. Applying for Social Security is a complicated process, and many people wind up missing out on some benefits.
Here are some ways that the elderly can acquire their needed Social Security benefits.
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Learn What Benefits You Qualify For
An important first step in acquiring your needed Social Security benefits is knowing which ones you qualify for.
Anyone who has worked just a few years in his or her life likely will qualify for regular Social Security. But, depending on your situation, you could qualify for spousal or dependent benefits. Those who are disabled may be able to get benefits earlier in life.
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Don’t Apply for More Than One Benefit
If you do qualify for more than one benefit, you have to choose the one that provides you the most money; you can’t have both.
If you do file for more than one benefit, you could lose out on all the ones for which you qualify.
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Work with a Lawyer
A sure way to know which benefits you qualify for and to make sure you get those benefits is to work with a lawyer who specializes in social security benefits.
Some professionals, such as Glen Cook, Social Security Attorney, know hoe confusing these sort of situations can be.
Professionals will be able to quickly determine which benefits you qualify for and help you to apply for them.
Though you will have to pay for this help, it can be worth it to ensure you maximize the amount of benefits you are getting.
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Don’t Apply for Benefits Too Early
Though you likely can qualify for Social Security benefits at age 62, you should defer from doing so unless it’s absolutely necessary.
If you are still working or if you have a pension or adequate retirement savings, you will maximize your Social Security benefits by waiting.
For most people, Social Security retirement age is 66 or 67, and you can continue to accrue additional benefits up to age 70. The longer you wait to begin receiving benefits, the larger your monthly check will be.
Social Security is an important financial benefit for seniors. Following these tips will help to ensure you acquire your needed benefits and get the maximum amount available.
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Rachelle Wilber is a freelance writer living in the San Diego, California area. She graduated from San Diego State University with her Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism and Media Studies. She tries to find an interest in all topics and themes, which prompts her writing. When she isn’t on her porch writing in the sun, you can find her shopping, at the beach, or at the gym. Follow her on twitter and Facebook.
