How do I know I'm getting credit for the years I worked?
- How does Social Security work?
- Does Social Security cover retirees only?
- How does my work now equal benefits later?
- Am I eligible for Social Security benefits?
- How do I know I'm getting credit for the years I worked?
- What about my eligibility for Medicare benefits?
- When can I start getting payouts?
- Why should I wait past age 62 to start collecting?
- How much will my payouts be if I collect at 62?
- How much will my payments be if I wait until age 70?
- Can I start collecting benefits if I'm still working?
- What's the best age to start getting payouts?
- How big will my payouts be?
- What if I want to work part-time in retirement?
- Will my spouse and kids receive benefits when I die?
- How do Social Security disability payments work?
- Will I get taxed on my Social Security payouts?
- Will Social Security still exist when I retire?
- How does Social Security fit into my retirement plan?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) mails out a summary of your benefits each year, about three months before your birthday. You can also request one by calling the SSA (800-772-1213) and asking for a form SSA-7004, or by downloading this form.
Your statement provides a record of your earnings history, the number of credits you've accumulated to date, and an estimate of the retirement benefits available if you wait until full retirement age. Because your benefits depend on your lifetime earnings, check the statement closely to make sure all the information is accurate.
