By Hillary Hatch, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Question: How do I apply for disability benefits? How long does it take to get a decision after I apply for disability benefits? Answer: You can apply for disability benefits online at http://www.ssa.gov/benefits. To get a decision on your disability application usually takes three-to-five months. The timeframe can vary depending on: Create or sign in to your … Continue reading Social Security Q&A Part 39

By Hillary Hatch, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Fraudsters will never take a break. While you are out enjoying fun and sun this summer, they are working hard to find new ways to scam you. Seniors and younger people are particularly vulnerable to scammers who claim to represent Social Security. To protect you and your loved ones, you can: Here are some tips to follow … Continue reading Fraudsters never go on vacation

By Hillary Hatch, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Every July, we take pride in celebrating our nation’s independence. For nearly 90 years, our programs have helped provide financial independence to millions of hardworking people. We have useful online tools like the Social Security Statement (Statement) and our benefits estimator tool that help people not yet receiving benefits. The Statement shows the benefits that you and … Continue reading Celebrate your independence with Social Security

By Hillary Hatch, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Question: Is it true that ten thousand people are retiring each day? What is the best way for me to apply and avoid long lines in my Social Security office? Answer: Yes. The best way is to use our online retirement application at www.ssa.gov. You can complete it in as little as 15 minutes. It’s so easy. You … Continue reading Social Security Q&A Part 38

By Hillary Hatch, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist  Well-informed instructors can have a powerful and positive influence on their students.  That’s why we created an Educator Toolkit.  It’s a shareable online resource for teachers to engage students and educate them on Social Security. The toolkitincludes: • Lesson plans with objectives. • Infographics and handouts for each lesson plan. • Links to Social Security webpages. • Talking points. • Quiz questions and answers. You can access … Continue reading Social Security supports teachers online

By Hillary Hatch, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Scammers are always finding new ways to steal your money and personal information by exploiting your fears.  The most effective way to defeat scammers is to know how to identify scams and to ignore suspicious calls and emails.    One common tactic scammers use is posing as federal agents or other law enforcement.  They may claim your … Continue reading Defend against scammers who target your Social Security benefits

By Hillary Hatch, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Social Security helps you secure today and tomorrow with financial benefits, information, and tools that support you throughout life’s journey. If you don’t have enough Social Security credits to qualify for benefits on your own record, you may be able to receive benefits on your spouse’s record. To qualify for spouse’s benefits, you must be one of … Continue reading Eligibility for spouse’s benefits

By Hillary Hatch, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Identity theft affects millions of people each year and can cause serious harm. Protect yourself by securing your personal information, understanding the threat of identity theft, and exercising caution. Here are 10 things you can start doing now to protect yourself and your loved ones from identity theft: 1. Protect your Social Security number by keeping your Social Security … Continue reading 10 ways to protect your personal information

By Hillary Hatch, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist June is Pride Month. It’s a time to acknowledge the LGBTQ+community, and also celebratediversity, love, and respect. On June 26, 2015, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a decision in Obergefell v. Hodges, holding that same-sex couples have a constitutional right to marry in all states. We recognize same-sex couples’ marriages in all states, and some non-marital legal … Continue reading Social Security’s commitment to the LGBTQ+ community