The Social Security Department of Public Affairs continues to promote access to various programs and benefits via its official website, SSA.gov, which is the official site of the Social Security Administration.
This platform enables users of all ages and backgrounds to complete online tasks quickly and efficiently. In this article, you will learn about the five most important benefits that can be applied for directly through the SSA portal.
We can begin by looking at retirement or spouse benefits, which are designed for people over the age of 61 and 9 months who want to begin receiving payments within four months. Those interested can find this service at www.ssa.gov/retirement.
Retirement and spousal benefits managed by the SSA
To begin, consider the retirement and spousal benefits provided by the Social Security Administration, which are intended for individuals who meet certain age and eligibility requirements.
To be eligible, applicants must be at least 61 years and 9 months old at the time of application and choose to begin receiving payments no later than four months from the date of submission.
This process is intended to facilitate an orderly transition to retirement, ensuring that payments begin without unnecessary delays. Retirement benefits are based on the applicant’s work history and Social Security credits accumulated during their working years.
The monthly amount received is calculated using the beneficiary’s average indexed income and the age at which they decide to begin receiving payments.
Disability benefits and Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
For those in need of SSDI benefits, the website provides an online form at www.ssa.gov/disability. Requirements include being at least 18 years old, having a medical condition that prevents you from working for 12 months or more, and not having been turned away in the previous 60 days.
In the event of a denial (which is possible, friend; you must be prepared), users can file an appeal at the official SSA website (search “how to appeal an SSA decision” online).
If the beneficiary believes that an error was made in denying a benefit, they can attach any type of documentation or legal arguments to support their appeal.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is intended for adults and children with disabilities or blindness, as well as people over the age of 65 who have limited resources. Some applicants may complete the process online at www.ssa.gov/ssi. For telephone assistance, call 1-800-772-1213 or use TTY/TDD service for the hearing impaired.
Medicare and Extra Help with Prescription Drugs
Medicare provides health insurance to people over the age of 65, younger workers with disabilities who have received benefits for 24 months, and patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Applicants can apply for Medicare up to three months before they turn 65 at www.ssa.gov/medicare.
Additionally, the Extra Help program provides support to Medicare beneficiaries to cover prescription drug costs, such as deductibles and co-payments. The request can be made at www.ssa.gov/medicare/part-d-extra-help.
