By Hillary Hatch, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist
Questions and Answers
Question:
I’m 17 and eager to start my first summer job, but my mother misplaced my Social Security card. How can I get another?
Answer:
If you know your Social Security number, you may not need to get a replacement card to obtain employment. However, if a prospective employer requests it, you can get a replacement Social Security card by following the steps below. There is no charge for a Social Security card, but you are limited to three per calendar year and 10 replacement cards during your lifetime.
You will need to:
- Show the required documents. We need to see different documents depending on your citizenship and the type of card you are requesting. Go to www.ssa.gov/ssnumber to find out what documents you will have to show.
- Fill out an Application for a Social Security Card.
- Take or mail your application and original or certified copies of the original documents to your local Social Security office.
For more information, read our pamphlet, Your Social Security Number and Card at www.ssa.gov/pubs.
Question:
How much will I receive if I qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI)?
Answer:
The amount of your SSI payment depends on where you live and how much income you have. The maximum SSI payment varies nationwide. For 2023, the maximum federal SSI payment for an eligible person is $914 a month and $1,371 a month for an eligible couple. However, many states add money to the basic payment.For more information, go to www.ssa.gov/ssi/text-benefits-ussi.htm.
Question:
I worked the first half of the year, but plan to retire this month. Will Social Security count the amount I earn for this year when I retire?
Answer:
Yes. If you retire mid-year, we count your earnings for the entire year. We have a special “earnings test” rule we apply to annual earnings, usually in the first year of retirement. Under this rule, you get a full payment for any whole month we consider you retired regardless of your yearly earnings. We consider you retired during any month your earnings are below the monthly earnings limit, or if you have not performed substantial services in self-employment. We do not consider income earned, beginning with the month you reach full retirement age. Learn more about the earnings test rule at www.ssa.gov/retire2/rule.htm.
Question:
I got an email that says it’s from Social Security, but I’m not so sure. They want me to reply with my Social Security number, date of birth, and mother’s maiden name for “verification.” Did it really come from Social Security?
Answer: No. Social Security will not send you an email asking you to share your personal information, such as your Social Security number, date of birth, or other private information. Beware of such scams — they’re after your information so they can use it for their own benefit. When in doubt, or if you have any questions about correspondence you receive from Social Security, contact your local Social Security office or call us at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) to see whether we really need any information from you.
Hillary Hatch is the Public Affairs Specialist for West Michigan. You can write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email at hillary.hatch@ssa.gov