Whether you’re a veteran who has already retired or are looking to start the process, there are several things you need to know about the Social Security retirement application. This article will help you learn about the requirements and how to apply.
Requirements to apply
Regardless of your reason for applying for social security retirement benefits, the application process is fairly simple. The application includes questions regarding your earnings and employment history. You can apply online, at a Social Security office, or by phone.
The application requires you to provide your Social Security number. This number is unique to you and will be used to track your benefits after retirement. The application also asks you to indicate whether you want Medicare Part B coverage, which covers most doctor visits.
You will also need to provide your employment information, including the names and addresses of your employers. You will also need to disclose how much you earned during the last two years. You may also need to provide copies of your W-2 forms and self-employment tax returns.
The Social Security Administration may also ask you to estimate your income for a specific month and year. In addition, you may also be asked to provide information about your disability benefits.
The Social Security Administration will also require you to provide your name, birth date, place of birth, and Social Security number. You will also be asked about your military service. This information will be used in conjunction with your age to determine eligibility for benefits.
The Social Security Administration will also require you to provide your spouse’s Social Security number. You may also need to provide information about the Social Security number of your children, if any.
Limits on how much family members can earn
Depending on how many qualifying family members are on the work record of a worker, the total amount of monthly benefits paid to the family may increase or decrease. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has a complex formula to determine the final amount. In the following example, the family maximum benefit is the SSA’s equivalent of 150 to 188% of the worker’s PIA (primary insurance amount).
The SSA’s family maximum rules only apply to one family. However, a family with two or more family members may claim auxiliary benefits. This may include a spouse, a child, or a minor dependent child. When two or more family members claim auxiliary benefits, the total is reduced by $400 per family member.
For example, a spouse may receive 50% of a primary earner’s benefit when he or she retires. When the spouse receives his or her own benefit, the family maximum benefit is not affected. However, a non-working spouse may receive a benefit of $1,000 per month.
The SSA’s family maximum formula is only good for the year in which the worker turns 62. However, if the spouse passes away in the year the calculation is made, the formula is no longer applicable. This makes the formula a less accurate measure of a family’s benefits.
Requirements for ex-spouses
Those who are currently divorced or who have recently divorced may be eligible to receive Social Security benefits. Benefits are based on the earnings record of the ex- spouse.
If the ex-spouse died and left no surviving spouse, the deceased person’s benefit is divided by 50%. This is the highest benefit that can be awarded to a divorce survivor. If you were married to the deceased person for 10 years or longer, you may qualify for a higher benefit.
The benefit is calculated as a percentage of the ex-spouse’s primary insurance amount. The PIA is equivalent to the full retirement age. The benefit is lower than the ex-spouse’s work record. If you are unsure about the benefits you can receive, it is recommended that you consult with an SSA representative.
A divorced spouse may be able to claim their own retirement benefits if they were born before January 2, 1954. However, they cannot delay claiming their own benefits. This means that the ex-spouse can begin to draw benefits as early as age 62, but their benefits will be reduced by up to 30% if the full retirement age is 66 or 67.
If you have children under the age of sixteen, they may be eligible for a family benefit. The benefit is equal to 75% of the deceased person’s SSDI benefit.
