US Government Social Security Information
In the United States, social security broadly refers to federal social insurance legislation that includes old-age and disability, unemployment, Temporary Assistance to Needy Families, Medicaid and Medicare. In common usage "social security" refers to the old-age and disability benefits authorized by the Social Security Act of 1935.
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Retirement
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If a person (or his spouse of ten years) has reached at least age 62, he may apply for social security retirement benefits. Benefits increase the longer a person waits to apply, with people born before 1938 eligible for full benefits at age 65 and those born after 1938 eligible for full benefits at age 66 to 67. The amount of monthly benefits paid depends on the amount of money earned while working, up to a maximum of $2,346.
Social Security Disability
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Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is designed to provide cash benefits to persons who are unable to work because of a disability. The process usually takes over a year to complete and the applicant must prove medically that they have a qualifying disability. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is for persons who have a medical disability and can also demonstrate financial need. Some persons can apply for both SSDI and SSI.
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Apply
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Applications for social security programs can now be filed online at the social security website. Applicants may need to fill out further paperwork to complete the process; original birth certificates, medical records and proof of income may be presented in hard copy to the local social security office. The office will make copies and return the original documents to the applicant.
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References
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