By Warren Beck | Social Security District Manager in Syracuse
Every July 4, we celebrate our nation’s independence. For nearly 90 years, our programs have helped create financial independence for millions of hardworking people. We have useful online resources like the Social Security Statement (statement) and our benefits estimator tool that helps people not yet receiving benefits. The statement shows the benefits that you and your family may be eligible for and provides personalized fact sheets tailored to your age and earnings situation. The benefits estimator tool allows you to get estimates based on different ages. These online tools can help you better prepare for your retirement.
If you’re not receiving benefits
You can get the most out of your online experience if you have a personal my Social Security account. You can:
• Request a replacement Social Security card.
• Get estimates for spouse’s benefits.
• Get your statement instantly.
• Get proof that you do not receive benefits.
• Check your application status.
If you’re receiving benefits
You can use your personal my Social Security account to:
• Request a replacement Social Security card.
• Get an instant benefit verification letter.
• Start or change your direct deposit. (Social Security beneficiaries only)
• Change your address. (Social Security beneficiaries only)
• Get a replacement SSA-1099 or SSA-1042S instantly for tax season.
• Opt out of mailed notices for those available online.
You can create your personal my Social Security account at www.ssa.gov/myaccount.
Our blog at blog.ssa.gov features news and information about our programs and services. You can subscribe and get notified each time we post a new blog so you can stay informed. From the blog, you can also connect with us on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube.
With so many services and helpful information available online, we are here for you when you need us. Learn more at www.ssa.gov.
Q&A
Q.: I haven’t received my Social Security Statement in the mail the last few years. Will I ever get one again?
A.: We currently mail Social aged 60 and over who aren’t receiving Social Security benefits and do not yet have a personal My Social Security account. We mail the statements three months prior to your birthday. Anyone can access their statement online if they have a personal My Social Security account. We encourage you to create your own account at www.ssa.gov/myaccount and check your statement at your convenience.
Q.: I am receiving Social Security retirement benefits and I recently went back to work. Do I have to pay Social Security (FICA) taxes on my income?
A.: Yes. By law, your employer must withhold FICA taxes from your paycheck. Although you are retired, you do receive credit for those new earnings. Each year Social Security automatically credits the new earnings. If your new earnings are higher than in any earlier year used to calculate your current benefit, your monthly benefit could increase. For more information, visit www.ssa.gov or call us at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778).
Q.: My doctor said he thinks I have a disability. Who decides if I meet the requirements for Social Security disability benefits?
A.: We first will review your application to make sure you meet some basic requirements for Social Security disability benefits, such as whether you worked enough years to be eligible for benefits. Then we will send your application to the disability determination services office in your state, often called the “DDS” or “state agency.” Your state agency completes the disability decision for us. Doctors and disability specialists in the state agency ask your doctors for information about your condition. They consider all the facts in your case. They use the medical evidence from your doctors and hospitals, clinics, or institutions where you have been treated and all other information.
The state agency staff may need more medical information before they can decide if you have a disability. If more information is not available from your current medical sources, the state agency may ask you to go for a special examination. We prefer to ask your own doctor, but sometimes the exam may have to be done by someone else. Social Security will pay for the exam and for some of the related travel costs. Learn more at www.ssa.gov/disability.