Your Guide to Social Security Benefits

Who Should Read This? You should!

Whether you're young or old, male or female, single or with a family--this booklet is for you and about you. That's because Social Security has programs that affect everybody. Chances are you're either paying Social Security taxes or getting Social Security benefits--or you're related to somebody who is.

Whatever your situation, this booklet has information you will find helpful and useful. It was prepared by the Social Security Administration and tells you what you need to know about Social Security while you're still working and what you need to know when it's your turn to collect benefits.

Please Note: This booklet provides a general overview of the Social Security program. The information it contains is not intended to cover all provisions of the law. For specific information about your case, contact a Social Security office.

What's Inside

Part 1--Social Security's Future And Yours!
Is There Social Security In Your Future? When Will You Need Social Security?
How To Reach Us When You Need Us
Your Future... And This Booklet

Part 2--What You Need To Know About Social Security While You're Still Working 
How Social Security Works--The General Idea Your Social Security Number
The Taxes You Pay
You Become Eligible For Social Security By Earning "Credits" How Much Will You Get From
Social Security? How Your Benefit Is Figured
If You Didn't Earn Enough Credits To Get Social Security 

Part 3--What You Need To Know When You Become Eligible For Social Security 
How And When To Sign Up For Social Security What Records Will You Need? 
Direct Deposit
Retirement Benefits
Disability Benefits
Benefits For Your Family
Survivors Benefits
Supplemental Security Income
Medicare 

Part 4--What You Need To Know After You 
Sign Up For Social Security
What You Need To Report To Us
If You Disagree With A Decision We Make How Your Earnings Affect Your Benefits
Your Benefits May Be Taxable
When Somebody Needs Help Managing Benefits 
Other Booklets Available 
Examples of Benefits 
Index

Social Security's Toll-Free Number 1-800-772-1213 Call between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. any business day.

To read Parts click on the links below...