Social security benefits provide income for people in a variety of situations. For many, it is retirement income after a lifetime of working. For others, it’s income to help someone who cannot work due to illness or injury. There are also social security benefits for the surviving children or spouse of a person who has passed away in some situations. Applying for each time of benefit is a bit different.
Retirement or Spouse’s Benefits
The most common type of social security benefits Wyckoff NJ is retirement or spouse’s benefits. To qualify, you must be at least 61 years and 9 months old and want your benefits to start within four months. If you are nearing 65 years old, your retirement benefits application will also include Medicare.
Disability Benefits
Disability benefits allow you to apply online. Keep in mind that many people who apply for these benefits are denied the first time and need to appeal the decision. If this happens to you, it is a good idea to work with an attorney who is experienced with social security disability benefits and can help you appeal your decision. This may include a court hearing.
Medicare Benefits
If you are applying for Medicare social security benefits, you must be at least 65 years old. You can apply for Medicare separately from your retirement benefits if you plan to continue to work. You also have the option of applying for extra help with prescription drug costs.
Survivor’s Benefits
Unlike most other types of social security benefits, you cannot report a death or apply for survivors’ social security online. In most cases, the funeral home is the one that reports a person’s death to Social Security. From there, you’ll need to call a toll-free number to apply for benefits.
Regardless of the type of social security benefits that you’re applying for, the process can be complicated. Consider working with an experienced social security benefits attorney to make the process easier.
