Celebrate your independence with Social Security
Every July 4, we celebrate our nation’s independence. For nearly 90 years, our programs have helped create financial independence for millions of hardworking people. We have useful online resources like the Social Security statement and our benefits estimator tool that helps people not yet receiving benefits. The statement shows the benefits that you and your family may be eligible for and provides personalized fact sheets tailored to your age and earnings situation. The benefits estimator tool allows you to get estimates based on different ages. These online tools can help you better prepare for your retirement.
If you’re not receiving benefits
- You can get the most out of your online experience if you have a personal my Social Security account. You can:
- Request a replacement Social Security card.
- Get estimates for spouse’s benefits.
- Get your statement instantly.
- Get proof that you do not receive benefits.
- Check your application status.
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If you’re receiving benefits
- You can use your personal my Social Security account to:
- Request a replacement Social Security card.
- Get an instant benefit verification letter.
- Start or change your direct deposit. (Social Security beneficiaries only)
- Change your address. (Social Security beneficiaries only)
- Get a replacement SSA-1099 or SSA-1042S instantly for tax season.
- Opt out of mailed notices for those available online.
You can create your personal my Social Security account at ssa.gov/myaccount. Our blog at blog.ssa.gov features news and information about our programs and services. You can subscribe and get notified each time we post a new blog so you can stay informed. From the blog, you can also connect with us on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube.
With so many services and helpful information available online, we are here for you when you need us. Learn more at www.ssa.gov.
Retirement
Q: I worked the first half of the year, but plan to retire this month. Will Social Security count the amount I earned for this year when I retire?
A: 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 ssa.gov/benefits/retirement/planner/rule.html.
Q: I’m retired and the only income I have is a monthly withdrawal from an Individual Retirement Account. Are the IRA withdrawals considered “earnings?” Could they reduce my monthly Social Security benefits?
A: We count only the wages you earn from a job or your net profit if you’re self-employed. Non-work income such as pensions, annuities, investment income, interest, capital gains and other government benefits are not counted and will not affect your Social Security benefits. For more information, visit ssa.gov or call us toll-free at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778).
This column was prepared by the Social Security Administration. For fast answers to specific Social Security questions, contact Social Security toll-free at 800-772-1213 or visit www.socialsecurity.gov.
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