When people talk about retirement in the United States, Social Security is often part of the conversation. But retirement is only one part of the story.
Social Security also provides benefits to some eligible people with disabilities and to certain family members after a worker dies. Each type of benefit has its own requirements, so the right answer depends on your work history, age, family situation, and other factors.
If you are new to the topic, the number of rules and benefit names can feel overwhelming. This guide explains the basics in plain English and shows you where to find official information.
What Is Social Security?
Social Security is a federal program that provides benefits to eligible people and certain family members. The Social Security Administration, often called the SSA, administers the program.
For many workers, Social Security taxes are paid through payroll. Self-employed people generally pay Social Security taxes as part of their self-employment taxes.
The program includes benefits for:
- Eligible retired workers
- Eligible workers with disabilities
- Certain family members of workers
- Eligible survivors after a worker dies
Not everyone receives the same benefit or amount. Eligibility and payments depend on the type of benefit and the person’s circumstances.
For an official overview, visit USA.gov’s Social Security guide.
What Types of Social Security Benefits Are Available?
Retirement Benefits
Retirement benefits provide monthly income to eligible workers who have earned enough Social Security credits. The amount is based largely on earnings from work covered by Social Security and the age when benefits begin.
Some family members may also qualify for benefits based on a worker’s record.
Disability Benefits
Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, may provide benefits to eligible people who have a qualifying disability and sufficient work history under Social Security rules.
Certain family members may also qualify based on the worker’s record. Disability benefits have specific medical and nonmedical requirements.
Survivor Benefits
Survivor benefits may be available to eligible family members after a worker dies. Depending on the circumstances, eligible survivors can include a spouse, former spouse, or child.
The requirements depend on the relationship, the worker’s record, and other factors. The SSA can explain which benefits may apply to a particular family.
How Do Social Security Retirement Benefits Work?
Many people earn Social Security credits by working in jobs covered by Social Security and paying the required taxes.
Workers generally need 40 credits to qualify for retirement benefits on their own work record. A person can earn up to four credits per year, so earning 40 credits generally takes at least 10 years of covered work.
Credits help determine whether you qualify; the number of credits alone does not determine your monthly payment. The SSA also considers your earnings history and when you begin receiving benefits.
Rules for disability and family benefits are different, so do not assume that the retirement credit requirement applies to every benefit.
When Can You Start Social Security Retirement Benefits?
Eligible workers can generally start their own Social Security retirement benefits as early as age 62. However, the age you choose affects your monthly amount.
Starting Before Full Retirement Age
If you start retirement benefits before your full retirement age, your monthly benefit is generally reduced. For most people, that reduction continues to affect the benefit going forward.
Your full retirement age depends on your year of birth.
Starting at Full Retirement Age
At full retirement age, you can receive your unreduced retirement benefit based on your earnings record, subject to applicable rules.
This does not necessarily mean full retirement age is the best choice for everyone. Health, work, savings, family needs, and other circumstances can all matter.
Delaying Benefits After Full Retirement Age
Delaying your own retirement benefits beyond full retirement age can increase your monthly amount through delayed retirement credits, generally up to age 70. There is no additional increase from delayed retirement credits for waiting beyond age 70.
The SSA provides an explanation of early and delayed retirement. If you are deciding when to claim, compare estimates for different ages and consider speaking with a qualified professional.
How Much Can You Receive?
There is no single Social Security payment that applies to everyone. Your estimated retirement benefit depends on factors including:
- Your earnings in work covered by Social Security
- Your work history
- The age when you start benefits
- Other circumstances that may affect your payment
The SSA uses a person’s earnings record to calculate retirement benefits. That is why checking your record for accuracy is important.
You can compare estimates for different claiming ages using the SSA’s benefit calculators. An estimate is not a guarantee of your final payment.
Can You Work While Receiving Retirement Benefits?
Yes, you can work while receiving Social Security retirement benefits. However, if you are under full retirement age, earnings above applicable limits can cause the SSA to withhold some benefits.
Once you reach full retirement age, the retirement earnings limit no longer reduces benefits because of your earnings. The SSA may also recalculate your benefit to account for months in which benefits were withheld under the earnings test.
The rules and earnings limits can change, so check current SSA information before making a decision.
What Is the Difference Between SSDI and SSI?
SSDI and Supplemental Security Income, or SSI, are different programs, even though both are administered by the SSA.
| Question | SSDI | SSI |
|---|---|---|
| Main basis | Qualifying disability and sufficient work history | Limited income and resources, plus applicable age or disability requirements |
| Is work history required? | Generally yes | No |
| Who may qualify? | Eligible workers with disabilities and certain family members | Eligible people age 65 or older, or people with a qualifying disability, including some children |
Some people may qualify for both SSDI and SSI. Each program has separate rules and an individual determination is required.
SSI is not the same as a Social Security retirement benefit and is funded differently. For more detail, see USA.gov’s comparison of SSDI and SSI.
How to Apply for Social Security Benefits
The application process depends on the type of benefit you are requesting. Some applications can be started online, while others may involve a phone call or an SSA office.
A practical way to begin is:
- Identify the benefit: Decide whether you are researching retirement, disability, survivor, or another benefit.
- Review the requirements: Check the official SSA guidance for that benefit.
- Gather information: The SSA may request identity, work, medical, or family information depending on the application.
- Apply through the SSA: Use the official website or contact the agency for instructions.
- Follow up: Keep records and respond to any requests for additional information.
Start with USA.gov’s Social Security benefits page or visit the Social Security Administration.
What Is a “my Social Security” Account?
A my Social Security account is an online account that allows eligible users to access certain SSA services.
Depending on your situation, you may be able to use it to:
- Review your earnings record
- Check benefit estimates
- Follow an application’s status
- Access certain benefit documents
- Manage some account or payment information
Use the official SSA website to access Social Security services. Avoid sharing your login details with anyone who contacts you unexpectedly.
Is Social Security the Same as Medicare?
No. Social Security and Medicare are different programs.
Social Security provides eligible people with income benefits, while Medicare provides health insurance for eligible people. Some people interact with both programs around retirement, which is one reason they are often discussed together.
To learn more about health coverage, read our article: Medicare vs. Medicaid: What’s the Difference?.
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Are Social Security Benefits Taxable?
Some people may have to pay federal income tax on part of their Social Security benefits, depending on their income and circumstances. State tax treatment can also vary.
SSI payments are not taxable, but SSI and Social Security benefits are different programs.
Tax rules can be complicated, particularly if you have wages, retirement income, or other sources of income. Check current IRS guidance or speak with a qualified tax professional.
For a general introduction, read How U.S. Federal Income Tax Works: A Beginner’s Guide.
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Common Social Security Mistakes to Avoid
Assuming Everyone Can Start at the Same Age
Different benefits have different age and eligibility rules. Age 62 is generally the earliest age for a worker’s own retirement benefit, but disability and survivor benefits have separate requirements.
Claiming Without Comparing Estimates
Starting earlier can reduce your monthly retirement benefit, while delaying may increase it. Review your estimates and consider your financial needs before deciding.
Ignoring Your Earnings Record
An incorrect earnings record could affect your benefit calculation. Review your record and contact the SSA if you find a problem.
Confusing SSI With Social Security Retirement
SSI and Social Security retirement benefits have different purposes and eligibility rules. Do not assume that qualifying for one means you qualify for the other.
Trusting Unexpected Calls or Messages
Scammers may pretend to be from the SSA and ask for money or personal information. If you are unsure whether a contact is genuine, reach the agency through its official website or published contact details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the earliest age to receive Social Security retirement benefits?
Eligible workers can generally begin their own retirement benefits at age 62, but starting before full retirement age generally reduces the monthly amount.
Does everyone receive the same Social Security payment?
No. Retirement benefits depend on factors such as earnings history and the age when benefits begin.
Can I work while receiving Social Security retirement benefits?
Yes. However, if you are under full retirement age, earnings above applicable limits may cause some benefits to be withheld.
Is SSI the same as SSDI?
No. SSDI generally depends on a qualifying disability and sufficient work history. SSI is based on limited income and resources along with applicable age or disability requirements.
How can I estimate my retirement benefit?
You can use the SSA’s retirement benefit calculators or check estimates through an eligible my Social Security account.
Final Thoughts
Social Security is more than a retirement payment. Depending on eligibility, it can also support people with disabilities and certain family members or survivors.
The best next step is to identify which benefit you are researching and check your own information through the SSA. Rules vary, and decisions such as when to start retirement benefits can have long-term effects.
This article is for general educational purposes and is not financial, tax, legal, or benefits advice. Program rules can change. Check current information with the Social Security Administration or a qualified professional before making a decision.