By Vonda Vantil, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist During the holiday season, most of us, regardless of our beliefs, focus on the children we love. Children are our future — we share our knowledge and talent with them — we pass on our values to them knowing they will share those gifts. Social Security safeguards children all year long, but we’d like to take this … Continue reading Caring for Children
By: Vonda VanTil, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Question: I have diabetes and I have to take insulin. Is my insulin covered by Medicare? Answer: Medicare Part B does not cover insulin unless use of an insulin pump is medically necessary. However, certain Medicare Part D prescription drug plans may cover insulin and certain supplies used to inject insulin, like syringes. For more information, please … Continue reading Social Security Q&A Part 17
By: Vonda VanTil, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Question: Can I refuse to give my Social Security number to a private business? Answer: Yes, you can refuse to disclose your Social Security number, and you should be careful about giving out your number. But, be aware, the person requesting your number can refuse services if you don’t give it. Businesses, banks, schools, private agencies, etc., … Continue reading Social Security Q&A Part 16
By Vonda Vantil, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Soon after school begins in the fall, many businesses begin advertising for seasonal workers. It’s a good way for people to make some extra income during the busy holiday season or ease back into working. The diversity of jobs appeals to many people. Each year, companies also hire for seasonal work-from-home positions. These jobs include: customer service, … Continue reading Seasonal Work Can Empower You
By: Vonda VanTil, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Question: Will my disability benefits be reduced if I get workers’ compensation or other public disability benefits? Answer: If you get either workers’ compensation or public disability benefit payments, we may reduce Social Security benefits for you and your family. Public disability benefit payments paid under a federal, state, or local government law may affect your Social Security … Continue reading Social Security Q&A Part 15
By: Vonda VanTil, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Question: How do I know if I’ve worked long enough to get Social Security disability benefits? Answer: To get Social Security disability benefits, you must meet the definition of disability under the Social Security Act. And you must have worked long enough — and recently enough — under Social Security to qualify for disability benefits. The amount … Continue reading Social Security Q&A Part 13
By Vonda Vantil, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Work means different things to different people, but it can give you a sense of self, a community to rely on, and much-needed structure. Some people define themselves through their careers, while others enjoy the social aspect of their jobs. If you rely on Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments and want to start working or return to … Continue reading Achieving Self-Support with Social Security
By: Vonda VanTil, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Question: What is the benefit amount a spouse may be entitled to receive? Answer: If you are eligible for both your own retirement benefit and for benefits as a spouse, we will always pay you benefits based on your record first. If your benefit as a spouse is higher than your retirement benefit, you will receive a combination … Continue reading Social Security Q&A Part 12
By: Vonda VanTil, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Question: I served in the military, and I’ll receive a military pension when I retire. Will that affect my Social Security benefits? Answer: You can get both Social Security retirement benefits and military retirement at the same time. Generally, we don’t reduce your Social Security benefits because of your military benefits. When you’re ready to apply for … Continue reading Social Security Q&A Part 11
By: Vonda VanTil, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist While it may be best known for retirement, Social Security is also here to help you get back to work if you are disabled. For millions of people, work isn’t just a source of income, it’s a vital part of who they are — it gives them purpose and pride — it’s a connection to community. If … Continue reading Working While Disabled – Social Security Can Help
